The primary goal of anti-Covid and anti-flu vaccinations
It’s from “reduce the risk of serious complications and thus, the number of deaths linked to these two infections” underlines Professor Anne Crémieux, of the High Authority for Health (HAS). According to an English study published in 2022 in the journal “The Lancet Infectious Diseases”, anti-Covid vaccination made it possible to reduce the total number of deaths worldwide by 63% in 2021.
Why repeat these vaccinations?
For two reasons : “The flu and Covid viruses mutate a lot, which involves adapting the vaccine to the strains circulating in the current year. Then, the effectiveness of these vaccines decreases over time, hence the need to boost it periodically. »
Who are the two boosters recommended for?
“Both boosters are recommended for people at risk of severe disease,” particularly those aged 65 and over, suffering from certain “co-morbidities” (diabetes, cancer, heart disease, etc.) and/or with weakened immunity. That said, regarding the anti-Covid booster, anyone who wishes can benefit from it, with 100% coverage.
Why vaccinate children against the flu?
“Since February 2023, the HAS has also recommended annual influenza vaccination for all children aged 2 to 17. » The aim here is in particular to limit the spread of this infection in the population, children being real reservoirs for the influenza virus.
Can we do both vaccines at the same time?
“This year again, the two vaccines can be given at the same time, with one injection in each arm. “. Allow around fifteen days after their administration to benefit from their protection.
