Other Nordic countries have already been grappling with the flu, which has resulted in a child’s death in Norway.
This is the first year conscripts are being mass inoculated to help stem the spread of seasonal influenza. The epidemic usually spreads north from southern Finland’s garrisons. Studies have shown that conscripts spread the flu around the country when on leave. So far, three-quarters of servicemen have rolled up their sleeves for the jab.
This year’s epidemic is beginning a little later than usual, according to the National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL). The late start is buying more time for people who still want to get vaccinated.
“The more people are inoculated, the milder the flu season will be,” said Mika Salminen of the THL.
Seasonal flu symptoms include a long-running fever, dry cough and achy muscles.
