2023-10-06 22:14:30
Title: Study Finds Women More Prone to Vaccine Reactions After Flu Shot, But Reasons Remain Unclear
Subtitle: Experts anticipate uncertain flu wave in 2023 based on international trends
Date: October 6, 2023
According to a recent Canadian study, women are more susceptible to experiencing adverse reactions after receiving flu vaccinations compared to men. However, the underlying reasons for this disparity still remain unclear.
The research, conducted by the University of Montreal, found that women aged between 18 and 64 were 29 percent more likely to experience a reaction at the injection site than men. For women over the age of 65, this probability increased to 43 percent. Similarly, younger women had a 25 percent higher risk of physical reactions compared to their male counterparts, while the probability for the older group stood at 27 percent.
Despite these findings, the study emphasized that most reactions after flu vaccinations are typically mild, self-limiting, and rarely serious. The researchers, in their publication in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, emphasized the importance of transparent communication regarding vaccine risks and benefits, as it can enhance trust and minimize vaccine hesitancy.
The study team also acknowledged that societal gender roles and stereotypes could potentially influence the results. They suggested that women may be more inclined to report health problems compared to men, which could impact the data.
Meanwhile, experts are anticipating an uncertain flu wave in 2023, set to commence in December. Virologist Monika Redlberger-Fritz from MedUni Vienna stated that the unpredictability stems from the varied patterns observed in flu waves across Australia, South Africa, and South America this year. While Australia experienced a moderate flu wave, both South Africa and South America witnessed intense outbreaks.
In Austria, preparations for the upcoming flu season are underway. The health insurance fund (ÖGK) will centrally coordinate and prioritize vaccinations for individuals with pre-existing conditions and older individuals. The flu shots will be available at ÖGK health centers and participating family doctors in Vienna. Adults and children aged 10 and above can receive the vaccine by paying a deductible fee of €7. However, young people under 18 years old and those exempt from prescription fees can receive the vaccination for free. Interested individuals can register for the vaccine through the health insurance company’s website or by contacting them via phone.
The Canadian study, which analyzed data from 18 clinical trials involving 34,343 adults, aimed to understand the differential effects of flu vaccinations on each gender. The team examined both injection site reactions and various physical reactions such as pain, redness, fever, headache, and muscle aches. The study team also considered other symptoms occurring three to four weeks after vaccination, as well as severe symptoms reported between 2010 and 2018.
As flu season approaches, health officials and researchers continue to monitor trends and work towards ensuring the effectiveness and safety of flu vaccines for everyone.]
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