AAP requests a flu shot for children 6 months and older

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has released its annual flu recommendations this week and said all children aged 6 months and older should receive the vaccine as soon as it is available.

Citing 179 influenza-related deaths reported during the 2017-2018 influenza season, the PAA stated that the vaccine "significantly reduces the risk of severe influenza and death in children".

"The flu virus is common – and unpredictable," said in a statement Flor M. Munoz, MD, FAAB, a member of the AAP's Infectious Disease Committee. "Vaccination reduces the risk of hospitalization of a child because of the flu."

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According to the press release, about 80% of children who died of the flu last season had not received a vaccine. Therefore, the AAP recommends that children 6 months of age and older receive the injectable form of the vaccine as soon as it is available and before the end of October.

"Staying healthy is the goal of everyone of us," said Wendy Sue Swanson, MD, FAAP MBA and AAP spokesperson, in the release. "As a pediatrician and mother, I too often see the rate of spread of the flu. Unfortunately, you can spread the flu without realizing it, because some infected people start transmitting the virus a day or two before they have symptoms. Get the hang. It's just logical.

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The AAP has stated that it is recommending the injectable form of the vaccine as first choice, but will support the use of nasal spray vaccine or live attenuated influenza vaccine for the 2018-19 season.

"The nasal spray vaccine can be used this year for children who would not otherwise receive the flu vaccine, provided they are 2 years of age or older and healthy without underlying disease," said the PAA.