Influenza New influenza wave on the march?

Influenza: new influenza wave is approaching?

11/01/2012

Experts from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) fear the outbreak of a flu epidemic. It's not too late for a vaccine, say the experts. The Union „Doctors for an individual vaccination decision“ advises, however, to carefully weigh the risk of disease and the physical integrity of the vaccine.

Robert Koch Institute advises the vaccination of certain groups of people
The Standing Vaccination Commission of the Robert Koch Institute (STIKO) advises certain, particularly vulnerable groups on the flu vaccine. Experts expect in the next few weeks with the outbreak of a flu epidemic. Silke Buda, influenza expert at the RKI explains: „It's never happened that she stays away.“ Although the ideal flu epidemic is October and November, vaccination can still be done now. The expert explained that building up the protection by the own immune system after vaccination takes about two weeks. „Normally, the seasonal flu epidemic begins in late January or early February“, adds Buda.

New vaccine also protects against swine flu
Following the 2009/2009 pandemic influenza H1N1 pandemic, another component has been added to the flu vaccine, with the current influenza vaccine also protecting against swine flu.

Vaccines have side effects
The Union „Doctors for an individual vaccination decision“ while not strictly against preventive vaccination, he advises a thorough balance between the risk of disease and the physical integrity of the vaccine. „Vaccinations can provide protection against threatening diseases and their use has contributed to a better health status of many people worldwide. However, like all medicines, vaccines can also cause severe adverse effects, in some cases with permanent adverse effects on health“, reports the club on its website. In the view of the association is reported too rarely from the sometimes serious side effects that may result in vaccinations. Patients can consult the doctor they trust about the pros and cons of vaccinations. (Ag)

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