Understanding the Efficacy
This year's flu vaccine shows a decrease in efficacy against hospitalization, offering 34% protection compared to last year's 50%.
Despite the lower efficacy, vaccinated individuals in countries like , , and have a significantly reduced risk of hospitalization from severe respiratory infections compared to unvaccinated individuals.
The Bigger Picture and Recommendations
The flu vaccine, targeting three strains of seasonal flu, is based on educated guesses made months in advance, highlighting the challenge of matching the circulating strains.
Health experts emphasize the importance of the flu vaccine as part of a broader health strategy, including good hygiene and healthy behaviors, to reduce the severity of the illness if contracted.