Seasonal influenza (the flu) is an acute respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. It is common in all parts of the world. Most people recover without treatment. Influenza spreads easily between people when they cough or sneeze. Vaccination is the best way to prevent the disease.

During the 1947 flu season, researchers discovered that existing vaccines were ineffective against the flu viruses circulating at the time. To investigate the viruses in circulation, the World Health Organization (WHO) established the Worldwide Influenza Centre in 1948 and the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) in 1952.

Feb 23, 2024 · The World Health Organization (WHO) today announced the recommendations for the viral composition of influenza vaccines for the 2024-2025 influenza season in the northern hemisphere. The announcement was made at an information session after a 4-day meeting on the Composition of Influenza Virus Vaccines. The meeting is held twice annually, once for the …

Children younger than 5-years-old, and especially those younger than 2-years-old, are at high risk of developing serious flu-related complications. A flu vaccine offers the best defense against flu, and its potentially serious consequences, and can also reduce the spread of flu to others. ©

Fact: Several flu viruses are circulating all the time, which is why people may still get the flu despite being vaccinated since the vaccine is specific to one strain. However, being vaccinated improves the chance of being protected from the flu. This is especially important to stop the virus affecting people with vulnerable immune systems.

Two types of influenza vaccine are widely available: inactivated influenza vaccines (IIV) and live attenuated influenza vaccines (LAIV).

Feb 28, 2025 · The World Health Organization (WHO) today announced the recommendations for the viral composition of influenza vaccines for the 2025–2026 influenza season in the northern hemisphere. The announcement was made at an information session at the end of a 4-day meeting on the Composition of Influenza Virus Vaccines, a meeting that is held twice annually.

Feb 24, 2023 · The World Health Organization (WHO) today announced the recommendations for the viral composition of influenza vaccines for the 2023-2024 influenza season in the northern hemisphere.

Oct 11, 2018 · Vaccination is the most effective measure to prevent severe disease caused by influenza. Influenza vaccines are safe, effective, and the principal measure for preventing influenza and reducing the impact of epidemics.

Dec 9, 2021 · The best way to prevent influenza is by getting vaccinated. As influenza viruses change, a flu shot is needed every year to keep up with the circulating viruses. In the northern hemisphere, the influenza season usually occurs during autumn and winter, and October is an optimal time to receive an influenza vaccination and to start the Campaign.