The flu season is ongoing in Ukraine, and at this time three strains of the virus are circulating: influenza B virus and two types of A – H1N1 (modified pandemic strain of 2009) and H3N2. The Head of the National Technical Group of Experts on Immunoprophylaxis, Fedir Lapiy, emphasizes that vaccination remains relevant even in early 2025, because the risk of getting sick persists until the end of spring.
Fedir Lapiy noted on KYIV24 that although the optimal time for vaccination is autumn (September-November), vaccination can be done throughout the entire flu season, which lasts until the 20th week of the year (approximately the end of April).
"It's not too late to get vaccinated even in January or February, because you can get sick in March or even April. It is important to remember that the immunity that is formed after vaccination helps to avoid severe forms of the disease," Lapiy emphasized.
Three strains of flu: what you need to know?
According to the Center for Public Health, the following are currently circulating in Ukraine:
- Influenza B virus – mainly causes moderate disease.
- H1N1 is the 2009 pandemic strain that continues to mutate.
- H3N2 is another type A strain that can also cause severe illness.
A feature of the 2025 flu season is that a person can become ill with several strains of the virus at once during one season.
Experts emphasize that while vaccines do not always prevent infection, they significantly reduce the risk of serious complications and deaths. Vaccination is especially important for people in at-risk groups - the elderly, pregnant women, children and people with chronic diseases.
"There is still more than a month until March, and this is a great opportunity to get vaccinated. You should not postpone it, because the flu can lead to serious complications, especially in weakened patients," Lapiy added.
