After a first phase that started on October 15, with priority given to vaccination for people over 65 years old residing in the Principality, then a second phase on November 3 dedicated to all Monegasques and residents, once again the Prince’s government has extended the scope of vaccination against influenza.
From yesterday, November 23, all employees affiliated to the Caisses Sociales de Monaco and the State Medical Benefits Services (SPME) and their dependents will be able to obtain influenza vaccines in pharmacies in the Principality, with or without a medical prescription. In practice, these vaccines are available on presentation of the Monaco affiliation card.
The vaccine can be administered by the pharmacist, his or her physician or an independent nurse. The vaccine will be fully reimbursed by the patient’s social fund.
The objective of the Monegasque health authorities is to get as many people as possible vaccinated and therefore do everything possible to limit as much as possible the combined effects of the two viruses, coronavirus and flu, which often circulate at the same time.
Seasonal flu and coronavirus, even though they are very different viruses, cause identical symptoms: fever, cough, fatigue, and muscle pain. A diagnosis will be faster if an infected person presents these symptoms but is vaccinated against the flu. Influenza vaccination takes a burden off healthcare facilities, especially as some patients suffering from flu have to be hospitalised.
It is clinically impossible – without a PCR test – to differentiate between influenza and COVID. By eliminating the flu, we also reduce the number of days off work or school.
FILE PHOTO: Reuters
