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A new composition of the influenza vaccination was recommended in February 2012 at the six monthly WHO vaccine composition meetings. This vaccine composed of three strains of influenza viruses (2 influenza As and 1 influenza B)

1.    an A/California/7/2009 (H1N1)pdm09-like virus;
2.    an A/Victoria/361/2011 (H3N2)-like virus;
3.    a B/Wisconsin/1/2010-like virus (from the B/Yamagata lineage of viruses).

A panel of experts determined and selected these viruses from the various strains of influenza viruses collected throughout the world, in the preceding six months. They help to determine the next likely circulating influenza virus for the coming season.

There is a significant change in the influenza A H3N2 and the influenza B vaccine viruses used, and previous vaccinations would not confer protection against the expected circulating strains.

All individuals, especially those within the high risk groups, will require an updated vaccination. This includes those who have had vaccination in August or September 2012 as the vaccine would have been superceded by this new vaccine.

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So please GO VACCINATED! Now is as good a time as ever.

Gentle reminder! VACCINATION should be given to the at-risk individual and those who live in the same household, or care for the individual. Yes, it would include child care teachers, healthcare workers and our domestic helpers, in addition to all the family members

Reference

1.       WHO Vaccine Composition Meetinghttp://www.who.int/influenza/vaccines/virus/recommendations/2012_13_north/en/index.html