Athletes Should be Vaccinated Against Influenza

Athletes often fear undue side effects or a training-induced deficient immune response to vaccination – in particular when vaccination is carried out during ongoing training/competition. However, influenza is a virus disease which can lead to large health problems and interfere heavily with the planned training processes. It has been shown that the most recent type of influenza vaccine is safe and effective in athletes, even when it is applied in between regular training sessions.

There is neither a difference in resulting immunity nor in side effects when comparing vaccination time points immediately after training and on the next day. The documented immune response is at least as strong as in comparable individuals of the same age. During the current Covid-19 pandemic, it is even more advisable that all athletes are vaccinated against influenza.