Influenza remains a silent threat that should not be overlooked, especially in high-risk groups such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and patients with chronic diseases. For this reason, annual influenza vaccination is necessary. In 2025, the World Health Organization has updated its standards, recommending the use of the 3-strain influenza vaccine (Trivalent Influenza Vaccine: TIV) instead of the previous 4-strain vaccine (QIV)
Why is the 3-strain influenza vaccine used this year? According to WHO surveillance, it was found that
- Since 2020, the B/Yamagata virus strain has not been detected worldwide
- This led WHO to announce that it is no longer necessary to include B/Yamagata in the vaccine
- The 3-strain vaccine (TIV) which consists of
-
- A/Victoria (H1N1)
- A/Croatia (H3N2)
- B/Austria (Victoria)
is sufficiently effective in protecting against the main strains still circulating in the global population. The strains in the vaccine are updated annually according to WHO recommendations to cover the viruses likely to spread in that season.
Advantages of the 3-strain influenza vaccine (TIV)
- Covers the main strains still commonly found
- Cost-effective and easily accessible Affordable price and readily available
- Supported by research data showing sufficient effectiveness in protecting high-risk groups
- Reduces disease severity and complications
Why get the influenza vaccine annually?
- Reduces the risk of infection and transmission in the community
- Reduces disease severity if infected
- Reduces hospitalization rates and complications such as pneumonia or heart failure
- Reduces mortality, especially in high-risk groups
Who should get the vaccine?
Everyone can benefit from the influenza vaccine (Influenza vaccine) but those who “should get it” especially are groups at high risk of severe illness or complications from influenza, including
- Young children aged 6 months to 2 years
- Elderly aged ≥ 65 years
- Pregnant women (in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters)
- Patients with chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, kidney disease
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Individuals weighing more than 100 kilograms
- Bedridden patients or those with brain disabilities who cannot care for themselves
Although influenza is often considered a mild illness by many, for some high-risk groups such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and patients with chronic diseases, it can cause severe complications or even death. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones. The 3-strain influenza vaccine is recommended because it covers the strains still circulating, is sufficiently effective, cost-effective, and easily accessible. It is especially suitable for disease prevention in all population groups, particularly those at high risk.
