Impact of the Influenza Vaccine on COVID-19 Infection Rates and Severity

Dr Shubha Agrawal

Abstract: Background: A retrospective study was done at CHEST CENTRE of Agrawal Diagnostic Center LLP, Mumbai, India by Dr Shubha Agrawal. Patientsvisiting respiratory OPD were vaccinated with Tetravalent influenza vaccine from January 2020 to February 2021.Hence, Retrospective Survey was done to assess the role of the influenza vaccine in COVID-19 susceptibility and severity and other respiratory illness.A total of 239 patients were vaccinated with tetravalent influenza vaccine of age groups from 18 years above in OPD. Methods: Retrospective survey was done on these 239 patients information was collected by various methods like Google form filled by the patients, Telephonic conversation and Physical check-up. Out of 239 patients only 139 patients responded to survey. We have done the survey on the basis of any illness suffered, COVID infection, treatment taken for it, need of oxygen therapy during this period of COVID-19 Pandemic. Results: Out of 239 patients 139 patients responded to survey .Out of139 patients 48% were male patients and 52% were female patients who responded.

Keywords: Influenza, COVID, Pandemic, Oxygen, Vaccination, Flu, asthma, COPD, Lung, Quadrivalent flu vaccine, Tetravalent flu vaccine