2023-10-18 04:57:00
Title: Corona Pandemic Helps Eradicate Flu Virus B, WHO Recommends Vaccine Changes
By: Teresa Toth, Nadja Austel
Date: October 18, 2023
Time: 4:57 a.m
HomePanorama – The corona pandemic may have wiped out the flu virus B, leading the World Health Organization (WHO) to recommend changes in flu vaccines.
As the frosty season approaches, the flu season also looms, and despite the corona pandemic pushing influenza viruses into the background, health authorities are warning against neglecting them. The measures put in place to combat the coronavirus resulted in milder flu waves or their absence in many places, but the scenario is expected to change as corona infections rise.
The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) estimates that during a flu wave, 5 to 20 percent of the population, or up to 16 million people, become infected with the flu, depending on the intensity. However, these statistics only record laboratory-confirmed cases, implying that the actual number of infections is likely much higher. Experts believe that Germans are not utilizing flu vaccinations enough, given the scale of these numbers.
The Standing Vaccination Commission (Stiko) suggests that the following groups of people should get flu vaccinations:
– All people aged 60 or above
– Pregnant women from the 2nd trimester, especially if there is an underlying health risk
– Individuals with increased health hazards due to underlying diseases (e.g., chronic respiratory, cardiovascular, liver, kidney, metabolic, or neurological diseases)
– Residents of retirement or nursing homes
– People living in the same household with individuals in high-risk categories
– People at risk due to their profession (e.g., medical staff)
– Individuals in facilities with extensive public traffic
– People who can act as possible sources of infection for at-risk individuals they care for.
While the corona pandemic has created favorable conditions for the spread of influenza viruses, as masks and social distancing regulations are no longer mandatory, it has also successfully combated one particular strain. According to a report by WHO, the influenza variant B/Yamagata has not been detected since March 2020, thanks to the mask requirements and reduced social contacts.
However, the question of whether to include another significant component in standard flu vaccines is still under debate. Presently, experts advise using existing resources more intensively. Flu statistics from Australia predict a significant wave, and Markus Beier, chairman of the Association of General Practitioners in Berlin, urges individuals falling under Stiko’s recommendations to get vaccinated to ensure a safe winter.
The possibility of completely eradicating the flu virus variant B/Yamagata due to the corona pandemic has led the WHO and the FDA to recommend excluding its component from future flu vaccines. David Wentworth, head of the WHO global influenza surveillance network, stated that there is currently no advantage to including Yamagata in the vaccine.
It is worth mentioning that this article benefitted from machine assistance and was carefully reviewed by editor Teresa Toth before publication.
In conclusion, while the corona pandemic transformed the flu landscape, it is crucial not to overlook the prominence of influenza as the winter season approaches. The WHO’s recommendation for changes in flu vaccines reflects the need to adapt to the ever-evolving virus landscape and ensure effective protection against potential flu outbreaks.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on available sources and should not be considered as medical advice. Consultation with healthcare professionals is advised for personalized guidance.]
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