The 2012 vaccination schedule does not bring much change compared to that of last year. But this calendar, which has just been published by the High Council for Public Health (HCSP), still announces a major novelty: the authorization to market a new seasonal influenza vaccine, in the form of a nasal spray. This vaccine is intended for children aged 2 to 17 who are eligible for vaccination against seasonal influenza due to an underlying pathology.
“This vaccine contains the same strains as the inactivated vaccines but it has specific features: it is a live attenuated vaccine which is administered by the nasal route. It acts on mucosal immunity by causing reactions similar to those caused by influenza. It has been evaluated by quality studies which have demonstrated its efficacy in children and its superiority compared to inactivated vaccine ”explains Professor Daniel Floret, Chairman of the Technical Committee for Vaccinations.
This vaccine in the form of a spray is marketed under the brand name Fluenz. Its recommendations are as follows: 1 dose of 0.1 ml instilled into each nostril. For children aged 24 months to 8 years not previously vaccinated against influenza, a second dose (0.1 ml in each nostril) should be given at least 4 weeks later.
Flu: other recommendations
the vaccination schedule 2012 also insists on the need to vaccinate new people at risk against influenza: pregnant women, regardless of the trimester of pregnancy, and obese people with a Body Mass Index equal to or greater than 40 (knowing that obesity starts at 30). These two groups were therefore added to the list of people eligible for vaccination against seasonal influenza. However, the flu shot is simply “recommended” and is by no means mandatory.
Finally, as every year, vaccination against influenza remains recommended for people 65 years and over, and for patients at risk. It is also important for those around infants under 6 months at risk of severe flu (premature, cardiac, etc.), and for “any professional” in prolonged contact with people at risk of severe flu.
