Decoding the Composition of Flu Shots: An In-Depth Overview
In recent years, concerns about the transparency and safety of flu shots have risen. This article aims to provide clarity on what components are included in flu vaccines for the 2020-21 influenza season, as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and American health authorities. Understanding these elements is crucial for individuals who are considering getting vaccinated against the flu.
Overview of Flu Shot Recommendations for the 2020-21 Season
Flu shots are developed annually based on predictions of which influenza strains will be prevalent during the coming season. The WHO recommends different components for trivalent and quadrivalent vaccines, reflecting the diversity of influenza viruses circulating globally.
Trivalent Flu Vaccines
The WHO's recommendations for trivalent vaccines for the 2020-21 season include:
Egg-Based Vaccines
A/Guangdong-Maonan/SWL1536/2019 H1N1pdm09-like virus A/Hong Kong/2671/2019 H3N2-like virus A B/Washington/02/2019 B/Victoria lineage-like virusCell- or Recombinant-Based Vaccines
A/Hawaii/70/2019 H1N1pdm09-like virus A/Hong Kong/45/2019 H3N2-like virus A B/Washington/02/2019 B/Victoria lineage-like virusThe components for these vaccines were recommended on February 28, 2020.
Quadrivalent Flu Vaccines
For the quadrivalent vaccines in the 2020-21 season, the WHO recommends:
Egg-Based Vaccines
A/Guangdong-Maonan/SWL1536/2019 H1N1pdm09-like virus A/Hong Kong/2671/2019 H3N2-like virus A B/Washington/02/2019 B/Victoria lineage-like virus A B/Phuket/3073/2013 B/Yamagata lineage-like virusCell- or Recombinant-Based Vaccines
A/Hawaii/70/2019 H1N1pdm09-like virus A/Hong Kong/45/2019 H3N2-like virus A B/Washington/02/2019 B/Victoria lineage-like virus A B/Phuket/3073/2013 B/Yamagata lineage-like virusUnderstanding the Components in Flu Shots
While the names of the viruses may sound confusing, it is important to note that these are strains chosen to best protect against circulating influenza. The composition of flu vaccines is designed to generate an immune response to the specific strains of influenza virus predicted to be prevalent during the coming season. This means that flu vaccines do not contain live viruses but rather elements that trigger your immune system.
For example, vaccines may contain small amounts of proteins derived from the surface antigens of the chosen virus strains. These proteins are recognized by your immune system, which then prepares your body to fight future infections with those specific strains.
It is worth noting that the specific components of flu vaccines can vary, both within and between seasons, based on the most current data on circulating viruses. However, all elements in the vaccines are rigorously tested for safety and effectiveness.
Conclusion
Understanding the composition of flu shots is crucial for informed decision-making when it comes to getting vaccinated. The WHO's recommendations provide a framework for health authorities and vaccine manufacturers to create vaccines that best protect against the predicted strains of influenza. Knowing what to expect can help alleviate concerns and encourage people to get vaccinated to protect themselves and others from the flu.
Our commitment to providing accurate and up-to-date information helps ensure that you can make informed choices about your health. Always consult with a medical professional or a health authority for personalized guidance and advice.