Russian immunologist Georgy Vikulov has declared vaccination the best way to prevent influenza as Russia prepares for seasonal autumn respiratory illness outbreaks.
Speaking to the National News Service, Vikulov, who serves as director of the Scientific Information Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Viral Infections, emphasized that getting vaccinated remains the primary protection against seasonal flu strains.
Influenza is a contagious viral respiratory infection that affects millions globally each winter, causing fever, muscle aches, and severe respiratory symptoms. Vikulov leads a Moscow-based research center dedicated to tracking viral diseases, evaluating treatment protocols, and educating the public on infectious disease prevention.
His advice follows an announcement from Anna Popova, the head of Rospotrebnadzor, who previously warned that both Hong Kong flu and swine flu strains could spread across Russia in the coming months. Rospotrebnadzor is Russia's federal agency responsible for public health surveillance and consumer protection.
Vikulov stressed that there is nothing extraordinary about these particular viral variants. He said experts forecast a routine pandemic rise in illness for the autumn and winter period, with infections expected to peak between November and January. He added that researchers currently have no data indicating super resistance to antiviral medications among the circulating strains.
Vaccine availability and preventive measures
To combat the upcoming flu season, Vikulov stated that 13 different types of vaccines are currently available across Russia for flu immunoprophylaxis. He noted that alongside vaccination, both medical treatments and non-medical preventive measures can help protect individuals against broader respiratory infections.
Annual flu shots are updated each season to target specific viral strains, including H1N1 swine flu and H3N2 Hong Kong flu. Public health organizations recommend annual vaccination because influenza viruses mutate constantly, requiring updated antibodies to maintain strong immune defenses throughout the colder months.
Dietary recommendations for cold season
In addition to medical prophylaxis, Russian quality monitoring agency Roskachestvo previously reported that certain seasonal foods can strengthen the immune system during the cold season. Experts at the agency highlighted pumpkin, carrots, mackerel, eggs, and nuts as key dietary additions for winter wellness.
Roskachestvo specialists explained that seasonal vegetables like carrots and pumpkins supply essential carotenoids and dietary fiber. Fatty fish such as mackerel and eggs deliver vitamin D, while legumes and nuts provide zinc. Poultry meat and seafood serve as important sources of selenium, nutrients that play vital roles in supporting cellular immunity and combating viral pathogens.
