Many countries in Asia are recording a sharp increase in influenza infections.
The workshop was organized by Sanofi, the National Institute of Inspection of vaccines and health foods, and the Malaysian Association for Infection Control and Infectious Diseases.
Health experts warn that the elderly are at high risk of serious complications from the flu, including pneumonia, myocardial infarction, hospitalization, and even death.
Concerns are growing as Southeast Asia's population is aging rapidly. However, the rate of influenza vaccination in the elderly is still low, causing millions of people to face the risk of serious complications each influenza season.
The flu vaccine provides significant protection against serious consequences such as hospitalizations and complications in this vulnerable group, said Professor Sasisopin Kiertiakul, Deputy Head of the Department of Training and Culture, Department of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, University of Mahidol, Master of Medical Sciences, Vice President, Thai Infectious Diseases Association, Executive Committee, Thai Royal Academy of Medicine, The top priority is to ensure that the elderly have access to and choose the right vaccine, to effectively prevent serious complications caused by the flu.
