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Why Do Some People Still Get The Flu Despite Taking Influenza Vaccine? Leading Virologist Explains
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What Happened?
Despite receiving the flu vaccine, some individuals still fall ill. A leading virologist explains how the evolving nature of the influenza virus affects vaccine effectiveness.
Key points
- The influenza virus constantly evolves, requiring annual updates to the vaccine.
- The World Health Organization assesses circulating strains to recommend vaccine components.
- Mismatch between circulating strains and vaccine strains can reduce vaccine effectiveness.
- The inactivated flu vaccine cannot cause influenza.
- Mild side effects may occur after vaccination, but they are not the flu.
- Vaccination reduces the risk of severe illness, even if it doesn't prevent infection.
Key insights
- The annual flu vaccine is essential for reducing the risk of severe illness.
- Public skepticism about vaccines may increase if mismatches occur frequently.
- Continued research is necessary to improve vaccine accuracy against evolving strains.
Why it matters
Understanding vaccine effectiveness can help individuals make informed health decisions.
Source
Times Now
