Influenza remains a silent but serious threat—especially for high-risk groups such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic illnesses. For this reason, getting an annual flu vaccine is essential. In 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) has updated its recommendation to use the Trivalent Influenza Vaccine (TIV) instead of the previously used Quadrivalent Vaccine (QIV).
Why Is the Trivalent Influenza Vaccine Used This Year?
According to surveillance by the World Health Organization (WHO), the decision to use the trivalent influenza vaccine (TIV) in 2025 is based on the following:
- Since 2020, the B/Yamagata influenza strain has not been detected globally.
- As a result, the WHO announced that it is no longer necessary to include B/Yamagata in seasonal flu vaccines.
- The trivalent vaccine (TIV) now includes:
1.oA/Victoria (H1N1)
2.oA/Croatia (H3N2)
3.oB/Austria (Victoria)
This vaccine composition is considered sufficient to protect against the main strains still circulating globally. Each year, the vaccine strains are updated based on WHO recommendations to match the most likely viruses expected to spread during the upcoming flu season.
Benefits of the Trivalent Influenza Vaccine (TIV)
- Covers the main influenza strains that are still actively circulating
- Cost-effective, accessible, and more affordable with easier distribution
- Supported by research showing sufficient effectiveness in protecting high-risk groups
- Helps reduce the severity of illness and prevent complications
Why You Should Get the Flu Vaccine Every Year
- Reduces the risk of infection and transmission within the community
- Lessens the severity of illness if infected
- Lowers the chances of hospitalization and complications such as pneumonia or heart failure
- Helps prevent death, especially in high-risk groups
Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine?
While everyone can benefit from the influenza vaccine, certain groups are especially recommended to receive it—particularly those at higher risk of severe illness or complications from the flu. These include:
- Young children aged 6 months to 2 years
- Older adults aged 65 and above
- Pregnant women (especially in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters)
- People with chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or kidney disease
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
- People who weigh more than 100 kilograms
- Bedridden patients or those with neurological disabilities who are unable to care for themselves
Although many people perceive influenza as a mild illness, it can lead to serious complications—or even death—for high-risk groups such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic diseases. Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect both yourself and your loved ones.
The trivalent influenza vaccine is currently recommended because it targets the strains that are still circulating, offers sufficient protection, is cost-effective, and widely accessible. It is especially well-suited for protecting all population groups, particularly those at higher risk.