During the first week of January 2020, eleven of the thirteen metropolitan regions are in the pre-epidemic phase. The figures are currently an average of 60 cases per 100,000 inhabitants.
Vaccination is possible at short notice: “Always get vaccinated before the epidemic is declared”, explains Sylvie Behillil, the deputy head of the National Reference Center for Influenza at the Institut Pasteur. “From the moment you have been vaccinated, you have to wait 15 days to be truly protected. So there is still time but we must hurry. “
Read also: “Why does the flu kill?”
A constantly evolving vaccine
Viruses differ every year. Scientists started working on the new vaccine several months ago. Global surveillance data for influenza viruses collected byWHO help determine the most likely virus profile.
“It is not yet known whether the vaccine will be effective or not. It is too early to know, “ specifies Sylvie Behillil. “Influenza viruses are viruses that mutate a lot, that evolve a lot, and it is very possible that the viruses that circulate are not entirely in line with what is in the vaccine. “
Read also: “Is cold the best ally of the flu?”
Vaccination for whom?
According to the WHO, the vaccine against influenza prevents about 60% of infections in healthy adults. The vaccination is particularly recommended for the most vulnerable people: the over 65s, patients suffering fromrespiratory failure and of heart problems or chronic conditions and pregnant women.
Read also: “Influenza: Should we force caregivers to get vaccinated?”
A few weeks are still necessary to collect more data and know the real effectiveness of the 2019/2020 vaccine.
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