Seasonal Flu Vaccination - Protect Your Children from Influenza:
Influenza is an illness that causes
inflammation in the respiratory tract, in the nose, in the throat, and in the
lungs. There are people, especially young children, pregnant women, the
elderly and people with chronic illnesses, who could develop complications from
influenza. Pregnant women are more likely to have severe complications from the
flu, especially in the second and third trimesters. Some even lose their lives
as a result of the complications. Despite the low mortality rates amongst the
whole population of children, it is important to remember that approximately
half of the cases of death occur amongst children who were healthy before
getting the flu.
All children should have vaccinations
for a variety of childhood illnesses at different ages. For example measles,
mumps and rubella (MMR) Diphtheria, tetanus, polio, meningitis and whooping
cough. An annual vaccine against the disease is the best way to protect your
children from influenza. American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that
children over the age of six months should be vaccinated. Vaccine effectiveness
varies from year to year. Vaccine effectiveness also varies from one person to
another, depending on factors like age and overall health.
“If you’re talking about
protection and issues about how you try to keep your loved ones as healthy as
possible, the number one is still getting the flu vaccine," said Dr. Randy
Bergen, a pediatrician and the clinical lead of Kaiser Permanente Northern
California’s Flu Vaccine Program. "Some protection is better than no
protection. “It’s also not too late to get a flu shot for your child if they
have not yet received one, experts say. Most
cases of influenza can be managed at home with rest, plenty of fluids and
fever-reducing medicines. Tender-loving care is good medicine, too.
What new skill are you working on with
your child this week? Please post in the comments. This should be
a great way to strengthen your baby's health!
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Neonatal Care 2018
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