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Dr S P Mathew

Influenza vaccine reduces antibiotic needs in middle-aged adults

Takeaway

  • Influenza vaccine reduced the likelihood for influenza-like illness (ILI), with significant declines in antibiotic prescriptions in a subgroup of adults ages 40-64 without comorbidities.

Why this matters

  • Strongly encourage influenza vaccination in middle-aged adults without comorbidities.

Key results

  • Influenza vaccination reduced primary care office visits for Influenza Like Illness [ILI].


  • The overall pooled reduction in ILI over 4 years was 24%.

  • The decline in the proportion of primary care encounters for ILI resulting in same-day antibiotic prescriptions was not significant, except for a subgroup of adults between the ages of 40 and 64 without comorbidities; pooled reductions in same-day prescriptions were 22%.

Summary:

Antibiotics have to be used cautiously as resistance is developing rapidly. Hence it is important to do whatever it takes to reduce use of antibiotics. Encourage everyone in your family to take the Flu Shot annually. It is the best way to protect yourself from not only the flu but also taking unnecessary medicines.

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