Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
October 17, 2025 Healthcare
Winter is approaching, and experts warn that influenza cases will soon begin to rise in the World Health Organization's European Region. Along with other respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, whose circulation has increased this summer, influenza poses a serious threat to public health, especially for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with chronic illnesses and weakened immune systems. Scientific evidence clearly indicates that vaccination remains the best way to protect against severe illness and complications.
The influenza virus constantly mutates, so scientists must update vaccines each year to reflect changes in circulating virus strains. Furthermore, the protection provided by vaccination fades over time. This is why it's so important to get a flu shot every year. Getting vaccinated early in the flu season will help protect you and those around you from the dominant strains that year.
Similarly, vaccines againstCOVID-19 are also updated as new virus variants emerge, and the protection provided by vaccination gradually weakens. Therefore, those eligible for vaccination should also strengthen their immunity beforeCOVID-19, getting vaccinations on time.
Vaccination reduces the risk of severe illness, complications, and the need for hospitalization. It saves lives and helps healthcare systems cope with the strain during the busy winter months. A recent study based on data from several countries in the European region found that between January 2022 and November 2023, COVID-19 vaccination reduced the risk of hospitalization within six months of vaccination by more than half.
Make informed choices
The WHO/Europe campaign, under the slogan "No one knows your risks better than you," is being launched at the start of the new flu and COVID-19 seasons. By making informed and responsible decisions, we can protect ourselves and those around us. WHO urges everyone, especially those at higher risk, to get vaccinated and take simple steps every day to protect themselves from the disease.
Get vaccinated as soon as you're offered the opportunity. If you're sick, stay home. If you have symptoms, wear a mask. Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing. Wash your hands regularly. Ventilate rooms regularly.
Protection against disinformation
This year, we'd like to emphasize the importance of protecting ourselves not only from viruses, but also from false and misleading information. False or misleading claims about vaccines and protective measures can spread online, sowing confusion and mistrust, and ultimately leaving people unprotected.
WHO recommends relying only on reliable information: check sources of information, verify facts, and consult trusted institutions such as ministries of health and the WHO.
"Trust the science. Get vaccinated. Protect yourself from seasonal flu," the WHO urges.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.