Key Points:
- WHO flu update: Flu shots still protect against severe illness and hospital visits.
- Vaccines remain effective even with virus changes (antigenic drift).
- Vaccination is essential for travelers and high-risk individuals.
The World Health Organization, in its latest WHO flu update, says early data show seasonal flu vaccines continue to protect children and adults from hospital visits as influenza activity rises across the Northern Hemisphere, though effectiveness against mild illness remains unclear.
WHO Confirms Rising Flu Activity and Vaccine Benefits
The WHO said Wednesday that influenza activity has increased since October across the Northern Hemisphere, with influenza A viruses making up most detected cases. In its latest Disease Outbreak News update, the agency reported that early estimates indicate flu shots still reduce the likelihood of hospital attendance.
“Even when circulating viruses differ from the vaccine strains, we expect the current vaccine to offer meaningful protection, especially against severe outcomes,” said Dr. Lina Patel, a WHO influenza surveillance official.
The WHO flu update noted that while protection against clinical disease is still being assessed, the vaccine continues to provide defense against the most serious complications.
Experts Highlight Importance of Vaccination Amid Ongoing Drift
WHO researchers said genetic differences between circulating influenza viruses and vaccine strains have emerged this season. Those differences, known as antigenic drift, often raise concerns about vaccine match.
Despite this, the agency emphasized that flu shots can still protect against drifted viruses and other strains included in the vaccine. “Seasonal vaccines remain a cornerstone of public health, even in years with modest viral drift,” said Dr. Michael Torres, an infectious disease specialist at the University of Geneva.
WHO staff said the organization continues monitoring global influenza trends and supporting countries as they strengthen surveillance systems, as emphasized in the latest WHO flu update.
U.S. Sees Uptick as Authorities Urge Travelers to Stay Protected
The WHO and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said flu vaccination remains essential for international travelers, particularly for people at high risk of complications and those caring for vulnerable individuals.
In the United States, several states, including Louisiana, have reported rising flu-related cases in recent weeks. Health officials say increased travel ahead of the holidays may further elevate the risk.
“Getting vaccinated now is still worthwhile, especially as respiratory infections rise,” said Dr. Karen Brooks, a CDC epidemiologist. She added that flu shots continue to provide an important layer of protection against severe disease and hospitalization, according to the WHO flu update.
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