The most effective (though not 100%) flu-prevention method – both seasonal and pandemic – is preventive vaccinations. They protect not only the vaccinated but also others in their close vicinity by reducing the spread of the virus.
- the flu season is tougher (i.e. the more people get sick, which can never be accurately predicted before it arrives);
- there is a greater risk of severe disease and complications – depending on the patient’s medical risk factors (see risk groups above), as well as the virulence of the viruses.
- reducing the spread of infections and diseases (thus protecting also people who, for various reasons, cannot be vaccinated, e.g. infants up to 6 months of age);
- preventing or stopping an epidemic.