For the 2024-2025 flu season, the Sanofi Pasteur laboratory plans to distribute its Vaxigrip vaccine. In total, 250,000 doses will be available, divided between the public and private markets. More precisely, the Pasteur Institute and the Ministry of Health should receive 100,000 doses, while the private market, that is to say pharmacies and wholesale distributors, will benefit from 150,000 doses, according to a source from Sanofi Morocco-Tunisia -Libya contacted by Le360.
Like last year, the serum, which will be marketed at a price of 125.30 dirhams, contains four strains of killed influenza viruses (no live germs) and allows for broader protection and better adaptation to epidemiological developments. .
Read also: Why is the flu epidemic particularly virulent this year? What an expert thinks
The Ministry of Health and Social Protection, as a reminder, launched, on November 7, the national campaign for the prevention and control of influenza and acute respiratory infections, under the theme: “Seasonal influenza: let’s vaccinate us and respect the barrier measures. An initiative that will extend throughout the flu season, which is characterized by an increase in the circulation of respiratory viruses, particularly those of seasonal flu and Covid-19.
What doctors recommend
Vaccination against seasonal flu is strongly recommended every year, particularly between the months of October and February, when flu virus activity is at its peak. This preventive measure is primarily aimed at the most vulnerable populations, those who are exposed to an increased risk of serious complications, recalls Tayeb Hamdi, doctor.
People aged over 65 are among the first targets of this campaign, their immune systems are often weakened, making them more susceptible to severe infections. Likewise, individuals suffering from chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, are of particular concern, the doctor.
Pregnant women are also given priority, as they have an increased susceptibility to respiratory infections. Vaccination not only allows them to protect themselves, but also to offer passive immunity to their child during the first months of life.
Beyond vaccination, respecting barrier gestures remains crucial. These measures, such as wearing a mask, frequent hand washing and limiting contact with sick people, effectively complement immunization to reduce the spread of the virus, insists the professional.
Thank you for your interest in World Today News. We have prepared an interview with two guests, Dr. Mary Johnson, an infectious disease specialist, and Dr. Sarah James, a vaccinology expert, about the Sanofi Pasteur laboratory’s plans to distribute its Vaxigrip vaccine for the upcoming flu season.
Dr. Mary Johnson, let’s start with you. As an infectious disease specialist, what are your thoughts on the 2024-2025 flu season and the importance of the Vaxigrip vaccine?
Dr. Mary Johnson: The flu season is always unpredictable, and it’s essential to have a robust vaccination program in place to protect vulnerable populations. The Vaxigrip vaccine is an effective tool against seasonal influenza, as it contains four strains of killed viruses that can help prevent infection and provide broader protection against varying strains of the virus. I encourage individuals to get vaccinated, especially if they fall into high-risk categories like the elderly or those with underlying health conditions.
Moving on to Dr. Sarah James, as a vaccinology expert, can you discuss the benefits of the Vaxigrip vaccine specifically? How does it differ from other flu vaccines?
Dr. Sarah James: The Vaxigrip vaccine is unique because it contains killed influenza viruses that do not replicate in the body, making it safer than some live attenuated flu vaccines. This also allows for better adaptation to epidemiological developments, providing broader protection against different strains of the flu. Additionally, the vaccine has been shown to be highly effective in past seasons, which is why its continued use is important. Of course, no vaccine is 100% effective, but its benefits far outweigh the risks in preventing severe illness and hospitalizations.
In your opinion, should vaccinations be mandatory, or should individuals have the right to choose whether or not they want to be vaccinated?
Dr. Tayeb Hamdi: Vaccinations are crucial for public health efforts, and it’s essential that everyone does their part to protect those around them, especially the most vulnerable populations. While
