At least 18,000 people have died from flu in the UK in the last two years: Does vaccination protect against the disease?

The cost of the spring seasons, known as 'flu seasons,' has been high for the UK over the last two years. More than 18,000 British citizens lost their lives during these 'flu seasons.'

According to a statement made by the UKHSA, the country experienced a 'mild flu season' between October and May of 2023-2024.

Despite this, at least 18,000 people lost their lives due to the flu and related causes during the periods of October 2022-May 2023 and October 2023-May 2024.

Although a decline was recorded during the COVID-19 period due to subsequent restrictions and changes in human behavior, flu cases have increased over the last two years, while a decline has been observed in the number of people getting the flu vaccine.

Vaccination rates fell to 4 in 10 people among the elderly with long-term health problems and children between the ages of 2 and 3, and to 1 in 3 women among pregnant women, while the hospitalization rate for those vaccinated decreased.

In 2023, there was a 'shortage' of cough and cold medicines in the UK

HOSPITALIZATION RATE IS LOWER IN THOSE WHO GET THE FLU VACCINE

Accordingly, the hospitalization rate for people over 65 who received the flu vaccine last year was 30 percent, while a 74 percent decrease in this rate was recorded for children between the ages of 2 and 17.

More than 19,500 people lost their lives to COVID-19 during the two periods in question.

UKHSA Deputy Director of Immunization Gayatri Amirthalingam stated that the flu is a virus that can lead to death and pointed to the importance of getting vaccinated.

Amirthalingam drew attention to the fact that those with long-term illnesses and pregnant women are at risk of having a severe case of the flu, and reminded that the hospitalization rate for those who get vaccinated is low.

News Source: AA