Flu vaccines reduce hospital stays

The average cost for admissions for influenza/pneumonia in 2009 is 19% less than that of 2008 and the average hospital cost for members who received the flu vaccine is 41% less than those who did not receive the flu vaccine. This figure was calculated based on the potential costs that would have been incurred if their average hospital cost was equal to that of members suffering from the same condition who did not have the vaccine, as the length of stay is also significantly shorter for members who received the flu vaccination versus members who did not

TopMed executive principal officer Len Deacon said that pneumonia is the most common complication of influenza, which occurs most frequently in certain groups of patients with underlying chronic illnesses who are classified as 'high risk' for infection.

High risk groups include patients with illnesses that involve the cardiovascular or pulmonary systems; patients with asthma; diabetes mellitus; renal disease; hemoglobinopathy; or immunosuppression; residents of nursing homes or chronic care facilities, and otherwise healthy individuals over age 50.

The most effective way to prevent influenza is by getting the flu vaccination, as well as using simple infection control measures such as hand washing. Antiviral medicines can also help prevent infection if one is exposed to the flu. The flu vaccine can reduce the chance of becoming infected with the flu and lower the chances of illness and death from influenza.

Private sector and government have confirmed that there is ample stock of the trivalent vaccination available in South Africa this flu season, which includes protection against H1N1 (swine flu). The majority of medical schemes cover the cost of flu vaccinations as an additional benefit to members. Flu vaccinations are available at doctors, clinics and pharmacies countrywide.