Flu vaccine highly effective for children, study finds
A new study published this week shows this year’s influenza vaccine offers strong protection, particularly for children and adolescents.
Researchers found the vaccine is 72 per cent effective in preventing hospital admissions with confirmed flu among 2 to 17 year olds across Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
The findings come amid a rise in flu cases in all age groups, with the highest numbers currently reported among children and teenagers.
For adults aged 65 and older, the vaccine was 34 per cent effective in reducing hospital admissions, similar to previous years.
The study results align closely with earlier findings from the UK Health Security Agency in England, which reported 74 per cent effectiveness among 2 to 17 year olds, 39 per cent for older adults and 33 per cent for adults aged 18 to 64.
Public Health Wales has encouraged parents who missed the school vaccination sessions to still get their children immunised before Christmas. Information on how to access vaccination locally is available on the Public Health Wales website.
Flu vaccination continues to be one of the best defences against serious illness, particularly for people with long-term conditions.
Public Health Wales’ Winter Well-being: Shared Actions and Impact report outlines practical ways to stay safe this winter, including:
- Making a winter plan for health and heating needs
- Preparing an emergency kit
- Keeping homes warm and well ventilated
- Using NHS 111 online and pharmacies for care
- Staying connected to reduce isolation
- Practising good hygiene and infection control
Health officials also reminded the public that flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines are key to preventing severe illness over winter. Immunity from previous vaccinations reduces over time, and this year’s flu vaccine has been updated to target current strains, including H3N2.
Older adults, residents of care homes and people with long-term health conditions remain most at risk from influenza A(H3). Those with chronic liver disease face a 48-fold increased risk of serious outcomes, while people with weakened immune systems are 45 times more likely to experience complications.
The study, led by Public Health Scotland and conducted in collaboration with Wales and Northern Ireland, analysed 1,379 influenza cases and 12,364 control samples collected between week 40 and week 47 of this year.
Check live fuel prices near you before you set off.
Spotted something? Got a story? Email news (@) deeside.com
NEW: Add Deeside.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Latest News
