Core Viewpoint - The flu season in China is expected to arrive earlier this year, with a different dominant strain compared to last year, primarily the H3N2 strain, which may lead to increased infection rates [1][2]. Group 1: Flu Characteristics - The main circulating strain this year is H3N2, contrasting with last year's H1N1, resulting in lower immunity among the population [2]. - Clinical symptoms of flu include high fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, and headaches, which are more severe compared to common colds [2][3]. Group 2: Vaccination Recommendations - Vaccination is the most effective method to prevent flu and reduce severe cases, with the recommended vaccination period being from September to November [4]. - Annual vaccination is necessary due to the rapid mutation of flu viruses, ensuring protection against the current year's strains [5][6]. - High-risk groups, including children under 5, the elderly over 65, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions, should prioritize vaccination [7][11]. Group 3: Vaccine Types - The available flu vaccines in China include trivalent and quadrivalent options, with quadrivalent vaccines covering an additional B strain [9]. - Despite the additional strain in quadrivalent vaccines, the effectiveness difference between trivalent and quadrivalent vaccines is minimal, and individuals are advised to get whichever is available [9]. Group 4: Special Considerations for Children - Children, especially those under 5, are at higher risk for severe complications from flu, necessitating careful monitoring and preventive measures [10][12]. - Parents should ensure adequate hydration, nutrition, and rest for infected children, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist [12].

Core Viewpoint - The flu season in China is expected to arrive earlier this year, with a predominant strain of H3N2, differing from last year's H1N1 strain, leading to lower immunity levels in the population [1][2]. Summary by Sections Flu Characteristics - The main circulating strain this year is H3N2, with an increase in flu cases reported in Japan, the UK, Germany, and Italy since October [2]. - Symptoms of H3N2 include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and headaches, similar to H1N1 and B strains [3]. Comparison with Common Cold - Flu is caused by influenza viruses (A and B), while common cold is caused by other viruses like rhinovirus [4]. - Flu has a higher transmission rate, significant seasonal peaks, and more severe symptoms, including high fever (39-40°C) and potential complications like pneumonia [4][5]. Vaccination Recommendations - Vaccination is the most effective method to prevent flu and reduce severe cases, with the recommended vaccination period being September to November [6]. - Annual vaccination is necessary due to the rapid mutation of flu viruses, which may differ each year [7]. High-Risk Groups - The National Health Commission recommends vaccination for all individuals over 6 months old, especially for high-risk groups such as children under 5, the elderly over 65, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions [8][11]. Pediatric Considerations - Children, especially those under 5, are at higher risk for severe complications from flu, necessitating careful monitoring and care [10][12].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of flu vaccination as the most effective and economical means of preventing influenza, especially as respiratory infectious diseases become more prevalent in the autumn season [1] Group 1: Vaccination and Monitoring - China has established a nationwide influenza virus monitoring network that includes sentinel hospitals to track influenza-like cases, alongside specialized laboratories for virus isolation, typing, and mutation analysis [1] - The seasonal flu vaccine components are adjusted based on national monitoring data and recommendations from the World Health Organization to ensure better alignment with circulating strains [1] Group 2: Additional Preventive Measures - Experts recommend enhancing protection through three additional strategies: maintaining a regular sleep schedule, balanced diet, and moderate exercise to boost immunity; practicing hand hygiene, proper mask-wearing, and ensuring good ventilation; and minimizing visits to crowded places while seeking medical attention promptly for flu-like symptoms [1]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of flu vaccination as respiratory infectious diseases, particularly influenza, become more prevalent during the autumn and winter seasons. It highlights the need for public awareness and vaccination efforts, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and children [1][2]. Group 1: Flu Vaccine Effectiveness - Influenza viruses are variable, but vaccines remain effective. China has established a nationwide flu virus monitoring network to track virus changes and adjust vaccine components accordingly, ensuring a match with circulating strains [2]. - Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe complications from influenza, such as pneumonia and respiratory failure, particularly in immunocompromised groups [2]. Group 2: Distinction Between Flu and Common Cold - The National Health Commission clarifies that influenza is fundamentally different from the common cold, with more severe symptoms and potential complications. Annual vaccination is recommended to prevent severe cases [3]. - Current vaccination rates are low, indicating a need for increased participation across all demographics, especially among high-risk groups [3]. Group 3: Transmission and Prevention - Influenza primarily spreads through respiratory droplets and can also be transmitted via contaminated surfaces. Crowded places are at higher risk for outbreaks, necessitating good personal hygiene practices [4]. Group 4: Vaccination Timing and Target Groups - The optimal time for flu vaccination is from September to November, with immunity developing within two weeks post-vaccination. High-risk groups, including seniors and those with chronic conditions, should prioritize vaccination [5]. - Both trivalent and quadrivalent vaccines are effective against the current circulating H1N1 strain, and individuals over six months can choose based on recommendations [5]. Group 5: Vaccination Locations - Vaccination should be conducted at qualified medical institutions, such as community health service centers and hospitals. Public can find vaccination sites through health department resources [6].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of flu vaccination and preventive measures during the autumn and winter seasons, highlighting the effectiveness of vaccines in reducing severe complications from influenza, especially among vulnerable populations [1][2]. Group 1: Flu Vaccination and Monitoring - The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention has established a nationwide flu virus monitoring network to track the changes in flu virus strains and adjust the seasonal flu vaccine components accordingly [1]. - The flu vaccine is recommended annually to ensure it matches the circulating strains, as flu viruses can mutate each year [1]. Group 2: Preventive Measures - In addition to vaccination, the article suggests three key strategies to enhance resistance against flu: maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing good hygiene, and being mindful of personal health [2]. - Specific recommendations include regular handwashing, wearing masks, ensuring proper ventilation indoors, and avoiding crowded places [2].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the importance of flu vaccination and preventive measures as respiratory infectious diseases, including influenza, become more prevalent in the autumn and winter seasons [1][2]. Group 1: Flu Vaccination - The flu virus is known to mutate, but it remains the same virus, and the Chinese CDC has established a nationwide flu virus monitoring network to track changes in the virus [1]. - The flu vaccine is adjusted annually based on monitoring data and recommendations from the World Health Organization to match circulating strains, emphasizing the need for annual vaccination [1][2]. - Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe complications from flu, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and children [2]. Group 2: Preventive Measures - In addition to vaccination, individuals are encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including proper sleep, balanced diet, and regular exercise to enhance immunity [2]. - Preventive actions include frequent handwashing, wearing masks, and ensuring good ventilation indoors [2]. - Public awareness of respiratory disease prevention is crucial, and individuals should minimize contact with others if flu-like symptoms appear [2].

Group 1 - The article emphasizes the importance of getting the flu vaccine, especially as flu activity is starting to rise in China, with approximately 1 billion seasonal flu cases annually, leading to 290,000 to 650,000 respiratory deaths each year [1][10] - It highlights that flu vaccines can significantly reduce the severity of the illness and the risk of complications, making vaccination a crucial preventive measure [1][11] Group 2 - There are three main types of flu vaccines approved in China: trivalent inactivated vaccines (IIV3), quadrivalent inactivated vaccines (IIV4), and trivalent live attenuated vaccines (LAIV3) [2][4] - The differences among these vaccines include the type of vaccine (inactivated vs. live attenuated), the number of strains covered (three vs. four), and the preparation methods (split vs. subunit) [3][6] Group 3 - The World Health Organization (WHO) has updated the recommended vaccine components for the 2025-2026 Northern Hemisphere flu season, indicating that the quadrivalent and trivalent vaccines can provide sufficient protection [10] - The article suggests that flu vaccines in most regions of China are classified as Category II vaccines, requiring voluntary and self-paid vaccination, with prices ranging from 100 to 500 yuan depending on various factors [10] Group 4 - Certain high-risk groups are prioritized for vaccination, including healthcare workers, elderly individuals over 60, those with chronic diseases, pregnant women, and young children aged 6 to 59 months [11][19] - The article stresses that even healthy adults should consider getting vaccinated to reduce the overall risk of flu transmission within the community [13][19] Group 5 - The article advises that flu vaccines do not provide immediate protection and typically take 2 to 4 weeks to become effective, making early vaccination in the fall crucial [21] - It also mentions that maintaining good respiratory hygiene and avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals are important preventive measures alongside vaccination [22]

Core Points - The flu vaccine vaccination work in Beijing officially started on September 10, 2025, with free vaccinations ending in November 2025 and paid vaccinations continuing until February 2026 [1][2] - The free vaccination program targets specific groups, including residents aged 60 and above, students in primary and secondary schools, frontline workers in key industries, and emergency personnel for major events [1][2] - The vaccination process will be organized through unified scheduling and advance appointments, with various methods available for individuals to book their vaccinations [1][2] Group 1 - The flu vaccine is an effective measure for preventing and controlling influenza, with September to November being the optimal time for vaccination in Beijing [2] - Citizens are advised to schedule their vaccinations according to personal needs and city arrangements, ensuring timely protection while avoiding overcrowding at vaccination sites [2] - Individuals aged 65 and above who have not received the 23-valent pneumococcal vaccine can also receive it for free after assessment at vaccination clinics [2] Group 2 - The autumn and winter seasons are peak periods for respiratory infectious diseases like influenza, highlighting the importance of maintaining good personal hygiene practices alongside vaccination [2] - Recommendations for personal hygiene include frequent handwashing, staying hydrated, regular exercise, and ensuring proper ventilation [2]