Reminder: vaccination helps to prevent flu

The flu season is coming round again, as it does every year. The health situation over the last two years required the introduction of barrier measures, which significantly limited the spread of the flu virus. Immunity in the general population has weakened, leading to an increased risk that severe cases will occur.

For this reason, the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs is encouraging vaccination for as many people as possible, particularly those who are most at risk. This is all the more important as the COVID-19 pandemic is not over.

Flu vaccination is open to everyone, and is especially important for the elderly, pregnant women, healthcare professionals and people with chronic diseases, including young children aged 6 months to 17 years if recommended by a paediatrician or general practitioner.

Getting vaccinated against flu helps to reduce symptoms and cuts the risks of complications considerably. It is also a way for healthcare professionals to protect the patients they are treating.

It is important to stress that the prevalent flu virus strains change from one year to the next: it is therefore vital to get vaccinated every year to protect yourself from new strains.

The vaccines are available from the Principality’s chemists, with or without a medical prescription, and the costs are fully covered by the patient’s social security fund. In practice, patients can choose to have the vaccine administered by a doctor, a private nurse or a chemist in the Principality.

The Prince’s Government hopes that everyone will choose to get vaccinated.