Mass gatherings like the annual Hajj is a potential epicentre for large outbreaks of acute airborne infections. Some of these infections are preventable with currently available vaccines.
Much needs to be done by the health authorities and health care professionals to increase awareness of maternal immunisation, whereby a single dose of maternal influenza vaccine can protect both mothers and their infants.
A petition led by the Malaysian Influenza Working Group urges the government to include fully-subsidised annual influenza vaccination for older people in Budget 2024. Thailand, Laos, the Philippines, and Singapore provide free flu jabs to senior citizens.
The risk of developing severe disease is higher in the presence of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, or chronic lung disease.
The common perception of flu as a mild disease is flawed. While it is true that the flu itself does not kill, its complications can be fatal, especially among high-risk groups like older persons and those with comorbid conditions.
Immunise4Life’s “Preventing the Flu at 65 and Beyond” recommends annual flu jabs for senior citizens to reduce the risk of severe disease, hospitalisation, and death.