Mater Dei nurses and health workers started getting vaccinated against seasonal influenza this week amid growing concerns that this year’s influenza strain will be much more virulent.
The vaccines are meant to prepare for an influx of at least 250,000 patients who will fall ill, according to estimates by health authorities. The figure is higher than last year’s 150,000 flu patients and is attributed to the sudden drop in temperatures expected to follow the multiple heatwaves this summer.
Hospital preparations are under way, with arrangements for more beds ex-pected to start as soon as a drop in temperatures is recorded.
Health authorities stocked up on 100,000 vaccines in an effort to ensure the number of shots available to the general public was at least 85,000
Influenza infections this year are not only expected to be more virulent but more dangerous, as authorities warn that Influenza A (H3N2), the most severe strain, will be the most predominant in the country. According to statistical models used by the Health Department, January will see the highest influx.
Outbreaks in Australia prompted Malta to enhance its flu preparedness and expect a harsher season of outbreaks. Malta monitors influenza by community surveillance, recording visits from general practitioners.
The influx of patients to Mater Dei Hospital follows the increase in the number of influenza cases reported by general practitioners, superintendent for public health Charmaine Gauci told the Times of Malta.
Health authorities stocked up on 100,000 vaccines in an effort to ensure the number of shots available to the general public was at least 85,000. Last year, 70,000 vaccinations were administered.
Health Minister Chris Fearne warned that this year’s flu season would be “harsh”, advising those most at risk to be vaccinated as soon as possible.
“The projection we have for Malta, based on scientific evidence from the southern hemisphere and on varying temperatures, is that this flu season will be quite strong,” Dr Fearne said in response to parliamentary questions on Budget day.
The seasonal influenza vaccine was made available last Monday, coupled with a promotional campaign to encourage the general public to get the jab.
The first week of the influenza vaccination campaign will focus on more vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, patients suffering from chronic diseases and those living in institutions. The rest of the season will turn its attention to the general population.
The State offers free influenza vaccinations to those aged under five and over 55. It is also available to those suffering from chronic illnesses in the lungs, liver, kidney, diabetes and heart and immunodeficiency conditions such as HIV.