Travel Alert: Flu Vaccination Essentials for Holiday Travelers

As the year draws to a close, many are preparing for holiday travel, coinciding with the onset of influenza season. The United Kingdom is experiencing an unusually early flu outbreak this year, raising concerns among health officials. According to Professor Christophe Fraser from the University of Oxford, “there are indicators that this could be worse than some of the flu seasons we’ve seen in the last 10 years.” Meanwhile, in Japan, where many travelers flock, influenza cases have already surged since late September, earlier than the typical November start of the flu season.

The rise in infections may be linked to increased gatherings in enclosed spaces during the lingering summer heat, as explained by Professor Atsuo Hamada from Tokyo Medical University. With the potential for higher flu activity, securing a flu vaccine before traveling is crucial to avoid returning home with an unwanted illness.

Introducing the New Nasal Spray Vaccine

For those hesitant about traditional injections, a new flu vaccine, known as FluMist Trivalent, is now available in Singapore. This nasal spray vaccine targets three virus subtypes: A (H1N1, H3N2) and B/Victoria. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that all flu vaccines will be trivalent for the upcoming 2024 to 2025 season. FluMist Trivalent has been available in the UK since 2011 and in the US since 2024, while in Singapore, it is approved for individuals aged two to 49 years.

While effective, the nasal vaccine may not be suitable for everyone. It is less effective for those aged 50 and older and may pose a higher risk of wheezing in children under two. It is essential for individuals to inform their healthcare providers of any medications they are taking, as well as any allergies, particularly to eggs.

Vaccination Timing and Recommendations

A common question arises: Do travelers need to get vaccinated if they are not traveling? Dr. Leong Choon Kit, a general practitioner from Mission (Hougang) Medical Clinic, emphasizes the importance of vaccination year-round, as influenza can circulate throughout the year. In Singapore, flu activity typically peaks from May to August and again from December to March. “We often see a surge in patients seeking vaccination before these seasons, especially those traveling overseas or going to colder climates,” Dr. Leong notes.

It takes approximately two weeks for the vaccine to take effect, making it critical to plan vaccinations accordingly. While annual vaccinations are generally sufficient, Dr. Wilnard Tan from the National Centre for Infectious Diseases advises that changes in vaccine formulations may necessitate a repeat dose.

After vaccination, some side effects can be expected, regardless of whether the vaccine is injected or delivered via nasal spray. The nasal spray may cause a runny or stuffy nose and a sore throat in adults, while children may experience mild fever. Injectable vaccines often result in soreness at the injection site, fatigue, and low-grade fever. Reactions typically resolve within one to two days, but individuals should seek medical attention for high fever or severe allergic reactions.

Understanding Vaccine Reactions and Safety

It is not uncommon for individual reactions to vary from year to year. Dr. Leong explains that factors such as immune response and exposure to other respiratory viruses can influence side effects. “The inconsistency in individuals’ response is a natural variation in immune responses,” Dr. Fang adds.

Concerns about contagiousness post-vaccination are addressed by Dr. Leong, who clarifies that flu vaccines contain inactivated virus components that cannot cause infection. If flu-like symptoms develop after vaccination, it is likely due to prior exposure to the virus before the vaccine took full effect.

The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a vital role in flu vaccine formulation. They convene a panel of experts biannually to review and recommend vaccine compositions for the northern and southern hemispheres. This process is crucial as influenza viruses continually evolve, making it impossible to create a lifetime vaccine. Researchers are actively exploring longer-lasting vaccine options.

Finally, to mitigate post-vaccination side effects, individuals are advised to stay well-hydrated and rested before receiving the vaccine. Moving the injected arm can help reduce soreness, and over-the-counter pain relievers may alleviate mild discomfort. However, individuals should avoid taking pain relief before vaccination, as it may mask symptoms or lead to complications.

As travelers prepare for their holiday journeys, understanding the importance of flu vaccinations, including the availability of new options like FluMist Trivalent, is essential for safeguarding health during the busy travel season.