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Doctor Explains Importance Of Flu Vaccine To Safeguard Your Child During Pandemic

Doctor Explains Importance Of Flu Vaccine To Safeguard Your Child During Pandemic
The first flu shot is given at six months after the children are born.

Can flu vaccines protect children against COVID-19 infection? Read to find out the answer.

Written by Longjam Dineshwori |Published : August 13, 2021 12:35 PM IST

Make sure your child gets flu shot during pandemic as recommended by the doctor. Flu is an epidemic and if the children fail to take the flu shot then they might end up being hospitalized. Flu shot is not just a preventive measure against viral infection, but it also reduces the risk of developing respiratory problems like pneumonia, which aggravates one's risk of COVID-19.

Seasonal changes and other factors can trigger cold and flu, which also bring in several respiratory issues among children. "The flu can raise the chances of children suffering from pneumonia, hospitalizations, and even mortality. Every year influenza virus mutations changed, and the body's immunity to influenza either through natural infection or vaccination goes down over time. Thus, it is important to get the flu shot every year," said Dr. Suresh Birajdar, Consultant, Paediatrics & Neonatology, Motherhood Hospital, Kharghar.

One develops antibodies in the body about two weeks after taking the flu vaccine, which is are given through a shot, which means with the help of a needle that injects the vaccine into the child's body, through the arm.

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Flu vaccines are given to children up to five years

Noting that it is important to immunize children up to five years, Dr. Birajdar explained that the first flu shot is given at six months after the children are born, as up to six months they have their mother's immunity to protect them. "Therefore, once a child turns six months, parents must ensure they get their child flu shot every year until the children turn 5," he said.

However, children above six years can still suffer from flu if they have certain serious conditions such as asthma, immune problems, or heart issues, he added.

A flu shot doesn't offer foolproof protection against COVID-19

Remember that even after taking a flu shot, children need to follow the Covid protocol. "Getting a flu shot does not mean that you will not get infected with Covid-19," Dr. Birajdar asserted.

Other preventive measures that children should take alongside flu shots include stay away from people who are sick, wash hands frequently, avoid touching eyes, face, and mouth frequently, wear masks and practice social distancing.

Apart from that, children should exercise at home, try to do activities like aerobics or walking with their parents.

Also, following a well-balanced diet is important to stay protected during the pandemic. Parents should make sure that the children avoid eating spicy, oily, junk, and processed foods, as well as sugary and carbonated drinks, the doctor stated.

If you haven't given flu shot to your child, then do that right away!"