This year’s flu vaccination season has begun. Health authorities advise priority groups to be vaccinated two weeks before the season arrives, so that antibody levels are established in time.
Priority groups are adults over 60, people with chronic conditions, school-age children, pregnant women and healthcare workers.
Common questions
On whether a vaccination last year means one is unnecessary this year, the answer is yes, it is still needed: influenza mutates quickly, the vaccine composition is adjusted annually against predicted circulating strains, and antibody levels decline over time.
- Onset: antibodies develop over about two weeks
- Priority: older adults, chronic conditions, school-age children, pregnant women
- Frequency: once a year
- Booking: online booking open at most sites
Most community health centres have opened online booking. Authorities advise postponing vaccination during an acute fever, and it is contraindicated for anyone allergic to the components.
Whether vaccination is appropriate in an individual case should be assessed at the clinic.
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