[Evidence Summary] Does the flu vaccine increase the risk of contracting covid19

No study established a link between the flu vaccine and an increased risk of contracting COVID-19. Wolff, investigating viral interference among Department of Defence personnel concluded that the flu vaccine was not associated with viral interference and provides protection against influenza. The study did show varied results for how each non-flu respiratory virus, such as a coronavirus, impacted vaccinated subjects. This paper drew attention on social media with claims that the flu vaccine would increase the chances of getting COVID-19 by 36%. These claims are contradicted by Fichera. The WHO recomendations in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic and immunistion is overarching and less disease specific. WHO states that mass vaccination campaigns to prevent or respond to outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases and high impact diseases (VPD/HID) are effective strategies to reduce deaths and disease. Yet many countries have had to postpone such vaccination campaigns due to the physical distancing measures implemented to reduce COVID-19 transmission. WHO developed interim guidiance, in the form of a framework and guiding principles to support countries in their decision-making regarding provision of immunization services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Each country will need to conduct risk assessments based on the local dynamics of COVID-19 transmission, immunization and health system characteristics and current VPD epidemiology in their setting. However the guiding prinicples recommend that where feasible, influenza vaccination of health workers, older adults and pregnant women is advised. In Ireland, the Minister for Health, Simon Harris, announced that the flu vaccination programme will be extended and made available free of charge to all children aged 2-12 years and to those in at risk groups. This is to minimise the risk of a second wave of COVID-19 during the winter flu season.