As the 2018-2019 influenza season approaches, pediatricians are urging parents to prioritize vaccination for their children. In a recent policy statement, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children over six months of age receive their flu shots promptly upon availability. Dr. Emily Johnson, a member of the AAP Committee on Infectious Diseases, emphasizes the significance of early immunization, stating, “The flu virus is both prevalent and unpredictable. It can lead to severe complications, even in otherwise healthy children. Vaccination significantly lowers the risk of hospitalization due to influenza.”
This urgency follows the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) report on the previous flu season, described as “high severity,” which resulted in the tragic deaths of over 180 children—an unprecedented number since the CDC began tracking such data in 2004. Alarmingly, it is estimated that approximately 80 percent of these children had not received the flu vaccine.
Alternative Vaccination Options
For parents concerned about the vaccine administration process, there is an alternative: the nasal spray vaccine, appropriate for children aged two and older. However, the AAP strongly advocates for the injectable vaccine, which has demonstrated higher efficacy against various flu strains in recent years.
The Importance of Vaccination
Dr. Michelle Lee, a pediatrician in Portland and AAP spokesperson, reinforces the importance of vaccination. “Health is the ultimate objective for families. As both a pediatrician and a mother, I frequently witness how rapidly influenza circulates in communities. It’s crucial to note that individuals can transmit the virus before exhibiting symptoms, making vaccination even more essential. Getting the flu shot is a logical choice.”
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Conclusion
In summary, as the influenza season begins, pediatricians strongly recommend that parents ensure their children receive the flu vaccine as soon as it becomes available. Early vaccination is crucial in reducing the risk of serious complications and hospitalizations associated with the flu.