Flu vaccination: Who is it important for?

2. Asthma, COPD & Co.

For people with chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma or COPD, as well as cystic fibrosis, another advantage of vaccination is that the already irritated airways are not put under additional strain by the infection. In addition, the lungs of these patients are poorly ventilated, which promotes pneumonia from the outset. Flu viruses can make it even easier for the pathogens that cause pneumonia.

3. Immunodeficiency and HIV

Pathogens of all kinds pose a threat to people with weak immune systems. The reason for the weak immune system can be congenital or acquired diseases such as HIV. Even if the infection can be easily controlled with medication, HIV-infected people should definitely get a flu vaccination. This also applies to people whose immune systems are deliberately suppressed with medication, for example after a stem cell or organ transplant.

4. Autoimmune diseases

Patients with autoimmune and other chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatism, Crohn’s disease or multiple sclerosis often receive so-called immunosuppressants. Special rules apply to vaccinations for them, because the vaccination can have a negative impact on the course of the disease. The risks and benefits of the flu vaccination must therefore be carefully weighed up for them.

5. Pregnant women

What many people don’t know is that during pregnancy the immune system reduces its activity. This prevents the defence cells from targeting the unborn child. Even if the child has half of its genetic material from the mother, it is a stranger in the body for the immune cells. Due to the reduced defences, pregnant women get flu more quickly and more severely. The child can also be harmed. The flu vaccination recommendation is therefore also aimed at expectant mothers.

6. Children

A flu vaccination can also be useful for healthy children. Children usually have a lot of contact, are more likely to become infected and can also become seriously ill with the flu. Secondly, it reduces the risk of transmission to other people who are at risk from the virus – including grandma and grandpa! Discuss a flu vaccination for your child with your (paediatrician) doctor.

7. Seniors

As we get older, not only does our muscle strength decrease, but our immune system also weakens. Older people are therefore more likely to get flu, and more often seriously ill. They should therefore get vaccinated. In Germany and Austria, vaccination authorities recommend the flu vaccination for everyone over 60, and in Switzerland over 65. Seniors are also advised to get vaccinated against pneumococci – a common pathogen that causes pneumonia.

8. Relatives and carers

Even if they themselves are not at high risk of complications, people with relatives who could be at risk from the flu should get vaccinated. To protect their loved ones. The same applies to anyone who works with vulnerable people – in nursing homes or hospital wards. As people who come into contact with many different people and are therefore exposed to many viruses, they naturally also benefit themselves.

9. Vulnerable occupational groups

In addition to nursing and medical professions, a flu vaccination is also advisable for other professional groups with an increased risk of infection or a lot of personal contact. These include, for example, teachers and daycare staff, hotel, catering and public transport staff, and supermarket checkout staff. If you do not belong to any of the above groups but would like to be vaccinated, it is best to speak to your family doctor.

In Dubai

The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) mandates that every Dubai visa holder is entitled to a flu jab every year as a part the minimum benefits covered by their health insurance, and these can be administered conveniently nurses and even pharmacies, so it has never been easier to get protected.