First-ever global initiative: Human bird flu vaccinations in Finland!

Finland to Offer Bird Flu Vaccination to Workers with Animal Exposure

First Country to Roll Out Bird Flu Vaccine

Finland is set to provide preemptive bird flu vaccination to workers with animal exposure starting next week, becoming the world’s pioneer in this initiative. The country has secured vaccines for 10,000 individuals as part of a joint EU procurement effort.

The H5N1 strain of bird flu has caused massive poultry loss globally, with increasing transmission to mammals and humans. Despite no human cases reported in Finland, the country aims to vaccinate individuals, particularly those at increased risk due to their work environments.

Given the transmission risks posed by fur farms, Finland is eager to roll out vaccinations. The Australian manufacturer, CSL Seqirus, confirmed that Finland would be the first country to introduce the vaccine.

Who Will Receive the Vaccine

The vaccine will be offered to individuals aged 18 and above who are at high risk of avian influenza due to their occupations, including workers at fur and poultry farms, lab technicians handling bird flu samples, and veterinarians in regions with fur farms. Additionally, people working in wildlife sanctuaries, livestock farms, and animal processing facilities will also be eligible for vaccination.

In the event of human infection, close contacts of suspected or confirmed cases will also be offered the bird flu vaccine.

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