2023-10-18 19:13:00
Title: Corona Pandemic May Have Wiped out Flu Virus B, WHO Recommends Vaccine Change
Date: October 18, 2023
By: Teresa Toth, Nadja Austel
The corona pandemic may have wiped out the flu virus B, leading the World Health Organization (WHO) to recommend a change in flu vaccines. As the flu season approaches, experts warn that it is even more important to pay attention to influenza, as significant flu waves are expected to occur again.
During the corona pandemic, the usual flu waves were either milder than usual or did not occur in many places due to measures taken against the coronavirus. The focus on COVID-19 may have inadvertently helped combat the flu virus B. However, the WHO now urges caution, as both corona infections and flu waves are predicted to increase.
According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), during a flu wave, an estimated five to 20 percent of the population, or up to 16 million people, become infected with the flu, depending on the intensity. These statistics only account for laboratory-confirmed cases, suggesting that the actual number of infections is likely much higher.
Despite these alarming numbers, the Standing Vaccination Commission (Stiko) suggests that Germans are not utilizing flu vaccinations enough. Stiko specifically recommends flu vaccinations for individuals aged 60 and above, pregnant women from the second trimester, people with underlying health conditions, residents of retirement or nursing homes, individuals with increased health hazards, and those in professions that pose a higher risk of infection.
While the corona pandemic inadvertently helped control the spread of flu viruses, with some strains disappearing entirely, the easing of restrictions could now enable easier transmission of the influenza virus. Experts warn that the lack of immunity due to fewer infections during the pandemic might make individuals more susceptible to new strains.
The World Health Organization’s report shows that the flu variant B/Yamagata has not been detected since March 2020, thanks to the mask requirements and reduced social contacts stemming from the pandemic. These measures successfully reduced seasonal influenza waves worldwide, and several flu virus strains only appeared sporadically.
In light of this development, the WHO and the FDA now recommend omitting the B/Yamagata component from future flu vaccines, indicating that there is no current advantage to including it. However, the debate remains regarding whether an additional, more significant component should be added to existing flu vaccines.
Markus Beier, chairman of the Association of General Practitioners in Berlin, highlights the flu statistics from Australia, suggesting that a significant flu wave can be expected there as well. Beier emphasizes the importance of using existing resources, particularly for those falling under Stiko’s recommendation, to ensure a safe passage through the winter months.
The collaboration of machine assistance and editorial guidance by Teresa Toth ensures the accuracy and quality of this article.]
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