Finland: Avian influenza vaccinations for at-risk populations underway
In accordance with the recommendations of the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), a vaccination program against avian influenza (bird flu) has commenced for individuals in high-risk occupational groups aged 18 and over.
The vaccination regimen consists of two doses administered at least three weeks apart. The vaccine, based on the H5N8 strain (CSL Seqirus H5N8 bird flu vaccine), has been supplied in a batch of 20,000 doses, which are valid until the end of September 2024. Consequently, the initial dose must be administered this month.
Vaccination is voluntary and exclusively available to those identified as being in risk groups.
To date, there have been no reported cases of avian influenza in humans in Finland, despite widespread outbreaks on fur farms in the country. Additionally, Finland has not approved the vaccination of animals against highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
Good luck to them!
See also: Vaccinating risk groups against H5 in Finland
