Flu shots are a must for children; Here is all you need to know

The flu shot is important to keep your children from getting sick. It is even more of a necessity in times of a pandemic, with a dangerous disease lurking above our heads. As the coronavirus is imminent, staying protected is vital to avoid hospitalization. Plus, the flu and the coronavirus together can wreak havoc on your children’s bodies, which is why getting your child immunized is essential. Also read – Why not miss a flu shot during pregnancy?

Importance of the flu shot for children

With the coronavirus outbreak, many people overlooked the importance of other conditions. They only focused on COVID, which is necessary but doesn’t mean you have to overlook other illnesses. Protecting yourself from infections like the flu is as important as protecting yourself from COVID. Read also – Fear of pneumonia? Flu infections can increase the risk of bacterial pneumonia

Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza A or B viruses. It is often mistaken for the common cold due to similar symptoms. It is important to see a professional doctor to be sure. The flu is an epidemic that can affect children of all ages. Getting a flu shot is essential to help your child develop immunity to stay protected against the flu. Although anyone can be infected with the flu, children are more prone to such illnesses. Children under 5 are at higher risk and should be vaccinated to avoid complications. Also read – WHO highlights risk of influenza in children and pregnant women during pandemic

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), between 1,40,000 and 8,10,000 people are hospitalized each year with the flu. So, if that hasn’t given you enough reasons to get your child vaccinated against the flu, here are some other reasons that might help you understand its importance.

• Reduces the risk of influenza illness, which may reduce the risk of hospitalization in children
• May make illness less severe in people prone to the flu
• Reduces the risk of developing high risk complications, especially in children under 5 years old
• Helps prevent the spread of the flu in babies under 6 months

When should your child get the flu shot?

According to the CDC, a child should get a flu shot six months after birth. This is because babies under six months old have their mother’s immunity to stay protected. Children should be vaccinated up to the age of five.

Other tips to keep in mind to protect your child

In this pandemic, it is best to protect your child from the flu because of the rapid spread of the coronavirus. Besides the flu shot, here are some other ways to protect your child from these respiratory infections.

• Keep your child away from sick people
• Ask them to wash their hands frequently to avoid getting sick
• Ask them to avoid touching their eyes and mouth with their hands
• Do not remove their mask in a public place
• Ask them to practice social distancing and to avoid physical contact with anyone

Posted: Dec 28, 2020 4:44 p.m.