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Getting back to school? Get your flu shot first
Children are returning to school, and while we are happy, we must keep in mind that changing seasons bring with it the risk of infections like influenza (flu).
Dr Pramod Jog, former president, Indian Academy of Pediatrics, professor of paediatrics at the DY Patil Medical College, Pune, paediatrician at Jog Children Clinic, Medipoint and Jupiter Hospital, Pune, says: “Transmission of flu happens through nose and respiratory tract, particularly when kids share close quarters, like school classrooms. Lack of exposure to the external environment, gaps in vaccination and lower levels of immunity can make children more vulnerable to seasonal infections like influenza, hence flu vaccination should be made an integral part of a child’s back to school plan.” He adds, “Influenza is a disease of the monsoon in most states of India, hence the right time to get annual flu vaccination is April onwards. If children are heading out to school or for a family vacation, both of which involve exposure to crowds, parents should make sure vaccination schedules are up-todate and the entire family is vaccinated.”
The medical burden of influenza and its complications are much more serious than initially perceived. Younger children have a greater risk of transmitting influenza infection to other members. Hence, if there are adults or elderly with comorbidities, the entire family must be vaccinated.
Follow a healthy diet and lifestyle. Practise hygiene habits like covering your mouth when coughing and washing hands often.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill.
Get the flu vaccine each year in April for India.
All the comments, views or opinions expressed herein are independent views of the doctor. MAT-IN-2201112-1.0-04/2022
WHAT IS FLU?
Flu — short for influenza — is an illness caused by influenza viruses. Flu viruses infect the nose, upper airways, throat and lungs. Flu spreads easily and can cause serious illness, especially for young children, older people, pregnant women and people with certain chronic conditions like asthma and diabetes (Source: CDC).