Influenza, a common yet potentially severe viral infection, continues to pose a significant threat to public health worldwide. Affecting an estimated one billion people annually, influenza or flu leads to three to five million severe cases and claims between 290,000 and 650,000 lives every year. The most vulnerable to flu-related complications are children under the age of five in developing countries, who account for the overwhelming majority of deaths due to lower respiratory tract infections linked to the virus. Despite these alarming statistics, the influenza vaccine remains underutilized, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where barriers such as cost, misinformation, and limited access persist.
The influenza virus is categorized into four types: A, B, C, and D. Of these, Influenza A and B are primarily responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks, while only Influenza A has caused pandemics in recent history. Notable subtypes of Influenza A currently circulating among humans include A(H1N1)pdm09, which caused the 2009 pandemic, and A(H3N2). Influenza B strains are classified into the B/Yamagata and B/Victoria lineages. Influenza C infections are rare and typically mild, and Influenza D affects cattle and is not known to infect humans. Because influenza viruses continuously mutate, the vaccine composition is reviewed and updated each year to provide optimal protection.
Symptoms of influenza typically appear within one to four days after exposure and can include a sudden onset of fever, dry cough, sore throat, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, headaches, and a runny nose. While most individuals recover within a week, some experience persistent cough and fatigue for longer durations. The flu spreads rapidly through respiratory droplets, especially in crowded settings, making vaccination a critical tool for prevention. Although antibiotics are commonly misused for flu treatment, they are ineffective against viruses and their overuse contributes to the global problem of antibiotic resistance.
In Kenya, the influenza vaccine is available in healthcare settings such as clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies, yet it is not part of the Kenya Expanded Programme on Immunisation (KEPI). The Ministry of Health recommends the vaccine for children aged 6-23 months, pregnant women, the elderly, healthcare workers, and individuals with chronic health conditions. Between 2019 and 2021, a demonstration project in Nakuru and Mombasa counties assessed vaccine uptake and attitudes among caregivers of young children. Despite encouraging figures showing 70 per cent of participants’ children had received the flu vaccine, concerns over safety, necessity, and vaccine overload were common. The study also found that misinformation especially fueled by social media and heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic significantly contributed to vaccine hesitancy.
Annual flu vaccination has been shown to reduce the risk of flu-related doctor visits and hospitalizations. Although its effectiveness may vary from year to year, the vaccine consistently lowers the severity of illness, prevents complications, and saves lives. High-risk groups are especially urged to receive the vaccine annually. Additionally, simple hygiene measures such as regular handwashing, proper tissue disposal, and staying home when ill play a crucial role in reducing flu transmission.
Integrating the flu vaccine into Kenya’s national immunisation schedule could significantly enhance protection for vulnerable populations. Building trust in the vaccine through community engagement, healthcare provider advocacy, and awareness campaigns is essential. With consistent effort and strategic planning, influenza vaccination can become a cornerstone of public health, safeguarding lives and reducing the burden of disease in Kenya and beyond.
