Understand whether it is worth getting the flu vaccine out of season – 11/19/2023 – Health

The change in the SUS vaccination calendar for the North of the country raises doubts among the population about the need for immunization at this time of year. The vaccine against influenza, the flu virus, is being applied considering the seasonality of the virus, which circulates with greater intensity at different times, depending on the climate of each region. Rain and humidity contribute to the proliferation, but heat does not interfere in any way.

To clarify the main doubts about vaccination in the summer, the Sheet heard two experts on the subject: infectious disease specialist Renato Kfouri, vice-president of the Brazilian Society of Immunizations (SBIm), and Letusa Albrecht, biologist and public health researcher at Fiocruz Paraná.

Can I get a flu shot in the summer?

It can, but not if you have already taken a dose this year or do not live in the North of Brazil. This is because that is where influenza circulates most intensely during this period.

Does heat interfere with the proliferation of the virus?

No, the increase in the number of flu cases is related to humidity and rain, as the crowding of people increases during this period.

Who should get the vaccine now?

All residents of the northern region (Acre, Amapá, Amazonas, Pará, Rondônia, Roraima and Tocantins), even those who have already taken it in April. Also all residents of other states who have not yet received any flu doses in 2023.

Who is it contraindicated for?

Babies under six months and those who had serious reactions to the last dose, which is rare. In this case, you need to consult a doctor for evaluation.

Why has the vaccination schedule not been modified in other regions of Brazil?

The periods of greatest circulation of the virus and those with the highest number of cases recorded in each region were considered. In summer they increase only in the North.

Should children, the elderly or people with comorbidities take it now?

The indication is the same for everyone: only those who live in the North or those who have not yet received a dose in 2023 should take it now.

Whoever takes it now needs to take it again in April?

Residents of the northern region will only take it again in November 2024. Residents of other regions will receive the dose in April, regardless of whether they have taken it now or not.

Can anyone who took it in the first half of 2023 take it again?

It can, but the vaccine is only indicated in times of high circulation of the virus, which changes in each region. Therefore, for those who do not live in the north of the country, it is not worth getting immunized now – which could only happen in private clinics.

Can heat increase the chances of a reaction to the vaccine?

No, the reactions are the body’s responses to the vaccine and are not affected by the weather.

Is the vaccine administered in summer the same as in winter?

Yes, both have the same composition and are trivalent, that is, they protect against three different strains of influenza.

When is the best time to get immunized against the flu?

During national campaign periods, as they precede viral circulation according to each region.

Can I get the vaccine if I have the flu?

No, just three days after the condition improved.

Does the vaccine cause flu?

No, it is made with an inactivated virus, so that the body’s defense cells recognize it as an invader and can thus fight it.

Can I get the flu and Covid vaccine together?

Yes, it can be administered along with any other vaccine on the immunization schedule.