At present, influenza is generally in a seasonal epidemic period, and the positive rate of influenza virus is showing an upward trend. Getting vaccinated against influenza is the most direct and effective way to prevent it. How to scientifically get vaccinated against influenza? Which group of people need vaccination more? The reporter interviewed Wang Yimin, deputy chief physician of the Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of China-Japan Friendship Hospital. We need to grasp the timing of getting vaccinated against influenza Wang Yimin said that the peak season for influenza is usually in winter and spring, from November to March of the following year. Considering that it usually takes 2 to 4 weeks for the vaccine to have a protective effect after being administered to the human body, it is best to receive the flu vaccine before the start of the flu season (between September and November each year). Is it still possible to get vaccinated now that we have entered the high incidence period of influenza? Wang Yimin said that if the best vaccination time is missed, timely vaccination during the flu season can also have a protective effect. The vaccine can only take effect after a certain period of time, during which personal protective measures should be taken, such as wearing masks scientifically and maintaining hand hygiene. Influenza viruses have high variability, and the strains that circulate each year may vary. The protective power of vaccines also gradually weakens over time. Therefore, in order to obtain sustained protection, it is essential to receive an annual flu vaccine. There are many misconceptions about the flu vaccine, such as some people thinking that they received the vaccine this year but still caught a cold, and therefore believe that the vaccine is useless and will not be administered again next year Wang Yimin believes that this viewpoint is incorrect. On the one hand, the appearance of cold symptoms may not necessarily be caused by influenza viruses, but may be caused by mycoplasma, rhinovirus, etc. Influenza vaccines do not produce resistance to these pathogens. On the other hand, although receiving the flu vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of contracting the flu, it cannot completely prevent infection; Even if infected, it can reduce the likelihood of severe illness and complications. People who are vulnerable to influenza should receive timely vaccination. Wang Yimin said that "one elderly and one young", pregnant women, chronic disease patients, and susceptible occupational groups belong to the vulnerable population to influenza. Elderly people over 65 years old are more susceptible to influenza virus infection due to the deterioration of their physical functions and weakened immunity; Children's bodies are in the developmental stage, and their immune systems are not yet fully developed. In addition, they often live in crowded places such as classrooms, which increases their risk of contracting influenza; Pregnant women who are infected with influenza virus have a high risk of severe influenza, which can also increase the risk of fetal miscarriage; Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, heart failure, diabetes and other chronic diseases may aggravate basic diseases and develop into severe diseases after being infected with influenza; Vulnerable occupational groups, such as those working in hospitals, schools, and childcare institutions, are more likely to come into contact with the influenza virus, be more susceptible to infection, and may also cause cluster outbreaks. Who cannot receive the flu vaccine? Wang Yimin said that for those who are allergic to vaccine ingredients or have experienced severe allergies after vaccination, it is not recommended to receive the flu vaccine. If you are experiencing a fever or a chronic disease that has recently worsened, it is recommended to control your condition before administering the vaccine. It is best to undergo evaluation by a doctor at the vaccination site before getting vaccinated. (New Society)