Why is flu vaccine important for kids in monsoon
flu Annual vaccination recommended for pre-monsoons from 6 children years. to 8 months
YEWALE, VIJAY
DR pediatrician Consultant
As the rains usher in a break from the summer heat, changing seasons also bring the threat of seasonal diseases. Respiratory infections like influenza (flu) peak in India during the monsoon season and affect all age groups. Young children and kids with chronic diseases are more at a risk of developing severe influenza and might need to be hospitalised. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare says influenza vaccine is desirable for children between 6 months and 8 years of age.
The symptoms of seasonal influenza include fever, cough (usually dry), headache, muscle and joint pain, severe malaise, sore throat and a runny nose. The World Health Organisation recommends the vaccine, as it is the most effective way to prevent infection and severe outcomes caused by influenza viruses. Dr Vijay
Yewale, consultant pediatrician and past president, Indian Academy of Pediatrics, suggests young children should take the influenza vaccine pre-monsoons. He explains, “The influenza strain keeps evolving every year, hence annual vaccination between late summer and early monsoons is recommended for children and adults, especially those with co-morbidities like diabetes and asthma. In addition to the vaccine, everyone should follow SMS – Safe physical distancing, Masking, and using Sanitizers, to keep seasonal air-borne diseases at bay.”
To learn valuable insights about keeping your little ones safe from seasonal infections this monsoon, join us for a special Live session with Dr Vijay Yewale and Tisca Chopra. The live session will be held today, 2.30pm onwards on Hindustan Times’ Facebook page.
Disclaimer: All the comments, views or opinions expressed herein are the independent views of the doctor. MAT-IN-2102080