The WHO & US centre for disease control recommends influenza vaccination annually for all persons from 6 months of age and older with some rare exceptions. Influenza vaccination reduces sickness, medical visits, hospitalisation, deaths, and additional health care burdens on the governments.
Influenza vaccine is particularly important for high-risk individuals with asthma, diabetes, heart diseases, pregnant women children younger than 5 years,school-going children, those with weakened immune systems, health care workers, and daycare centres.
If infected with influenza infection symptoms can last from mild to severe & for a few days to weeks.
In some, it can result in complications which can be pneumonia, ear infections, myocarditis to any life threatening conditions.
Generally, flu season begins here from late September to March but worldwide the duration and onset may vary slightly.
Different types of flu shots are available which are produced annually, according to the prevalence of virus strains during that period.
H1n1, h3n3, and 2 types of b strains of influenza viruses are generally used in the manufacturing of the vaccine. Inactivated and live virus vaccines are used for administration. 2 doses with 4 weeks interval between 2 doses are recommended for first-ever administration followed by annual vaccinations.
The majority of influenza vaccines are cost-effective and wide use will help prevent pandemics. The side effects are generally minor and in some rare cases serious reactions. The physician generally discusses with the persons the benefits and contraindications before administering the vaccination.
Specialist Pediatrician
Aster Clinic, Karama (UMC)
