Why is influenza vaccination important?
Influenza is a severe respiratory infection with high morbidity and mortality among the elderly and other vulnerable patient groups. Influenza vaccination is the most effective way to protect from influenza. However, vaccination coverage remains low in many areas. Influenza vaccination of health care workers is an important measure in patient safety and it is the responsibility of the employer to ensure that only vaccine protected personnel take care of those vulnerable. This article provides information on influenza vaccines, discusses the effectiveness and vaccine coverage of influenza vaccines in Finland and describes some future prospects regarding new vaccines.