The effectiveness of the influenza vaccine in the southern hemisphere has decreased this year compared to last year, with a 35% reduction in the risk of hospitalization among high-risk groups in South American countries. The CDC warns that similar results are expected in the U.S. if A(H3N2) viruses dominate the upcoming flu season. Despite this decrease, vaccination is still crucial for protecting high-risk individuals from serious complications, with the current vaccine offering protection against widely circulating strains of H1N1, H3N2, and influenza B virus. The CDC recommends getting vaccinated and using antiviral treatments and nonpharmaceutical measures to prevent the spread of the flu.
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