[Problem of influenza prophylaxis by vaccines].

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Public Health

Context:

• Influenza poses significant health and economic challenges globally.
• Effective prophylaxis strategies are essential to mitigate influenza's impact across diverse populations.

Purpose:

• To discuss challenges and propose optimal strategies for influenza prophylaxis in various age demographics.
• To highlight the importance of vaccination for different age groups, including pregnant women, children, adults, and the elderly.

Summary:

• Influenza prophylaxis in neonates can be achieved through maternal antibodies, necessitating vaccination during pregnancy.
• Children aged 6 months to 2 years require more effective, well-tolerated vaccines.
• Prophylaxis in working adults is key to reducing economic losses during epidemics.
• Elderly individuals benefit from novel, adjuvant-enhanced vaccines.
• Mass vaccination of children (80%) is identified as the optimal general population strategy, potentially reducing overall influenza morbidity by up to 80%.

Impact:

• Implementing targeted influenza prophylaxis strategies can significantly reduce disease burden.
• Mass childhood vaccination offers a highly effective approach to achieving herd immunity and protecting vulnerable populations.
• Economic losses due to influenza epidemics can be substantially minimized through effective prevention.