In recent weeks, temperate countries in the Northern hemisphere (e.g. the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Spain, France and Belgium) have reported increased influenza activity.

The most common strain of influenza virus isolated in Europe and the United States is the influenza A Fujian variant.

Situation In Singapore:

The average weekly attendances of acute respiratory infections at the polyclinics in October 2003 were about 16% more than that in September 2003.

The Ministry of Health would like to advise travelers, both adults and children 6 months and older, going to temperate countries in the Northern Hemisphere to protect themselves against the disease with influenza vaccination.

The vaccination should be taken at least 1 to 2 weeks prior to departure as it takes time for the vaccination to take effect. (Children younger than 9 years old will require 2 vaccinations about 4 weeks apart; the second vaccination should be taken at least 1 week prior to departure.)

Influenza vaccination is available at the travel clinics in Tan Tock Seng Hospital, National University Hospital, Kandang Kerbau Women’s and Children’s Hospital and Changi General Hospital, polyclinics and General Practitioners.

The current influenza vaccine composition will give good protection against the Moscow strain. It may not fully protect against the Fujian strain, but will offer some protection. Immunized persons may still come down with some symptoms if they are exposed and infected by the Fujian strain, but the severity and duration of the disease will be lessened.

Persons who are at higher risk of developing complications from influenza are also advised to get themselves vaccinated against influenza. A list of persons who may be at higher risk of developing complications from influenza is listed as Annex A. The public should consult their family doctor for further advice on influenza vaccination.

More.....risk factors

Source: Ministry of Health Press Release 4 Dec 2003