The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) warned this Tuesday that the next flu season could be Especially severe for the elderly, After early detection of some cases, and demanded vaccination.
In a statement, the European Center for Disease Control and Prevention explained that although the number of cases identified is currently still low in most EU countries, the spread of the influenza virus is already exceeding the seasonal limit in Croatia, “which is very early”.
In addition to the early identification of cases, the main variable detected among the cases recorded in the past month is influenza A, which, according to the ECDC, disproportionately affects the elderly and is associated with reduced vaccine efficacy.
Unable to predict exactly what the next flu season will be like, CDC specialist Pacey Bentinen confirms Need to take precautions In order to protect the most vulnerable groups.
He warned that “a sharp increase in influenza infections during the Covid-19 epidemic could have severe consequences for the elderly and those with weakened immune systems and could place an additional burden on health systems already affected by the epidemic.”
According to the ECDC, there has been a significant decrease in the last year, more than 99%, in the number of cases of influenza virus in the European Union, possibly as a result of the rules and precautions imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“After our experience with the Covid-19 epidemic, we now have more evidence that non-pharmacological interventions such as social distancing and hygiene measures can effectively limit the spread of the virus,” says the same expert.
The European Center for Disease Control and Prevention (ECDC) calls for much of this care to be maintained, highlighting the importance of vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 and against influenza which, according to Bassie Bentenen, “also provides good protection against serious diseases.”
“Those who work in homes or in a healthcare setting should ensure they are vaccinated before the winter months,” he repeats.
In Portugal, influenza vaccination began at the end of September for residents, users, professionals of social response institutions, patients, specialists of the Integrated Continuing Care Network, specialists of the National Health Service (SNS) and pregnant women.
However, it has been extended to people over 65 who have also been recalled since October 11 to receive the third dose of the covid-19 vaccine, as well as home users and long-term care units.
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