Luxembourg's Ministry of Health has confirmed the arrival of new doses of flu vaccine ahead of the influenza season.
In order to meet the increased demand for seasonal influenza vaccines and to optimise the protection of people at risk for this infection, the Health Department has made newly delivered doses of the vaccine available free of charge to medical practices. This primarily targets health professionals, as well as people at risk.
A flu vaccine for health professionals is all the more important this year to avoid overwhelming the health system and preserve its resources for the management of COVID-19 and other health problems during the winter season.
As such, vaccination is recommended for all groups of professionals who are in close contact with the most vulnerable. Among these are hospital medical and nursing staff (who also play an essential role in advising their patients on influenza vaccination), the staff of retirement homes, nursery schools and home care services.
The doses acquired within the framework of a public contract will also be made available to medical practices for the vaccination of high-risk population groups (people aged 65 and over, pregnant women and people suffering from chronic respiratory diseases and cardiovascular disease, diabetes, kidney problems or reduced immunity), according to the recommendations of the Superior Council of Infectious Diseases.
The Health Ministry emphasised that vaccination is the most effective way to protect against influenza and its sometimes serious complications, which can lead to severe pneumonia and prove fatal for the most fragile. It consists of a single injection, but must be repeated each year, as the influenza virus undergoes constant seasonal variations. Vaccination against influenza is generally well tolerated and rarely produces side effects, ranging from a slight fever to temporary general discomfort or pain at the injection site. Fifteen days after vaccination, the immune system is already ready to defend itself against the flu virus. Immunity persists for at least six months.
For additional information, visit the Health portal www.sante.lu.
