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Children Two & Younger are at a Greater Risk for the Flu: Get Them VACCINATED

By Dr. Maria Lania

It’s that time of year again: flu season. As the leaves begin to fall and the weather cools, it’s time to protect yourself from Influenza: Get vaccinated. Influenza or the flu occurs in the U.S. from December to March each year. It increases school absenteeism, missed workdays, hospitalizations and even deaths.

Can the influenza vaccine give you the flu?

No, it cannot cause the flu. It is a killed virus vaccine, and therefore no live virus is given. The most common side effect of the flu vaccine is soreness at the site of the injection. Mild fever and generalized muscle ache is rare, and, if they occur, affect persons with no previous flu vaccination or exposure to the virus. The only reason not to receive the flu vaccine is a true allergic reaction to eggs or chicken feathers. But, if a person can tolerate eating eggs alone or in foods, then the vaccine can be safely given.

The risk is greater for some

People with heart or lung disease (or anyone over the age of 65 or younger than 2) are at greatest risk of complications from the flu. Therefore, it is recommended that they receive the vaccine yearly. The flu vaccine should also be given to people with immune defects, chronic disease like diabetes, sickle cell anemia or kidney disease.

You may have the flu if…

The abrupt onset of fever, sore throat, and a nonproductive cough are prime symptoms of the flu. Unlike the common cold, the flu can cause extreme symptoms lasting several days. It is transmitted when a person sneezes or coughs, which generates small particles of the virus that can travel long distances. The flu is treated with rest, increased fluids and analgesics. Some antiviral medications are available, but they need to be taken early.

Dr. Maria Lania-Howarth is the head of the Division of Asthma, Allergy, and Immunology at Cooper Hospital University Medical Center in Camden, NJ.