Flu vaccine still worth getting despite mismatch with mutated H1N1 virus
UKPulse Health Desk
This year's flu season has seen an early arrival of the influenza virus, and a mutated H1N1 strain is currently dominant. Despite this, experts recommend getting vaccinated as it can protect against severe disease, hospitalization, and death.
- The current flu season has started earlier than usual, with cases reported on the west coast two and a half months before normal.
- A mutated H1N1 virus is currently dominant, but there's no evidence that it makes the virus more likely to cause severe illness.
- Experts recommend getting vaccinated as soon as possible, especially for those under 25 who have less immunity to this strain.
Influenza arrived early this year, popping up on the west coast about two and a half months earlier than normal. The mutated H1N1 virus is currently dominant, but experts say there's no evidence that it makes the virus more likely to cause severe illness.
Despite being developed before the mutation, the flu vaccine is still worth getting as it can protect against severe disease, hospitalization, and death. Experts recommend getting vaccinated as soon as possible, especially for those under 25 who have less immunity to this strain.
Why this matters: Getting vaccinated can help prevent serious illness, hospitalizations, and recovery time.
What this means for you: Consider getting vaccinated to protect against severe disease and hospitalization. If you do get sick, stay at home and wear an N95 mask if you must leave your home.