Flu and pneumoccal vaccines
Exacerbations of asthma are mainly caused by respiratory viruses and bacteria which lead to increased inflammation and chest infections.
The two vaccinations recommended for patients with asthma are:
- Influenza (flu) vaccine (all people with asthma every year).
- Pneumococcal vaccine (recommended for people with severe asthma and for anyone with asthma over the age of 65 years).
Research has shown that vaccination can reduce the number of exacerbations of the disease and reduce hospital admissions.
