Why does the vaccine change every year?
Influenza viruses undergo continuous antigenic drift, so the vaccine has to be updated periodically to cover the strains expected for the upcoming season. The WHO meets twice a year to define the new formulation.
Top priority groups
- Adults aged 65 and over.
- Pregnant women in any trimester.
- Children from 6 months to 5 years.
- Patients with chronic conditions (diabetes, heart, lung, immune).
- Healthcare workers and teachers.
Vaccine effectiveness
Effectiveness ranges between 40–60% against infection, but its biggest value is reducing severe symptoms and complications by up to 70%, especially among vulnerable groups.
The vaccine does not guarantee you won't get infected, but it keeps you out of the ICU.
د
About the author
د. تاح
محاضر متخصص في المجال الطبي، يقدم محتوى تعليمياً عالي الجودة.
