Mass vaccination against influenza in Belarus will start in early October

Mass vaccination against influenza will start in early October. This was reported during a press conference “Prevention of seasonal viral diseases: how to protect yourself and your loved ones”, said the head of the Department of hygiene, epidemiology and prevention of the Ministry of Health Inna Karaban.

She also added:

- In September, vaccination can be done only on a fee basis with the availability of the vaccine, while budget deliveries will be received by health organizations in early October. The optimal timing of vaccination is October and November: immunity is formed on average for 2-4 weeks, and the vaccination made during this period provides protection to the onset of the seasonal rise in the incidence of influenza. If a person did not have time to get vaccinated in advance, this can be done in December and even in January, but with a calm epidemiological situation. With late vaccination, there is a risk of getting sick before the formation of immunity, which often leads to erroneous accusations against the vaccine.

The entire vaccine was purchased at the request of health organizations. The first batches have already entered the country and are undergoing quality control. They are expected to be distributed by the end of September. After that, doctors will begin to invite residents belonging to risk groups to vaccinate. Handwashing, physical activity and respiratory etiquette: the doctor reminded about the measures to protect children in the season of SARS