Understanding flu vaccination

Abstract

Circulating influenza (flu) viruses are continuously undergoing change, which makes the public more vulnerable to contracting flu. While anyone may develop complications from influenza, there are certain high-risk groups who are more vulnerable to life-threatening complications. Healthcare workers are in the ideal position to identify high-risk groups and to recommend annual flu vaccination. Carefully explaining the benefits and allaying certain misconceptions regarding flu vaccination will help increase the number of people receiving the flu vaccine annually, thereby decreasing the high morbidity and mortality rate due to influenza.