Expert Insights on the Upcoming Flu Season: Importance of Vaccination and Strategies for Parents
As the seasons change, so does our attention to one of the perennial health concerns: the flu season. With the ongoing challenges of managing various health concerns like COVID-19 and RSV, understanding the nuances of the upcoming influenza season is key. Dr. Maulin Soneji, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, provides his expertise and insights on what we can anticipate in this upcoming flu season, the importance of vaccination, and practical strategies for parents.
The influenza season has just begun, and its severity remains uncertain. In a typical season, there are millions of infections, thousands of hospitalizations, and tens of thousands of deaths. While most deaths occur in adults, it’s important to note that around 100 child deaths occur each year, with severe seasons having up to 200 child deaths, primarily in children under two years old.
Fortunately, there is a vaccine available for everyone over six months old. Think of influenza vaccination as wearing a seatbelt in a car. Just like a seatbelt doesn’t prevent accidents but significantly improves outcomes if an accident happens, the influenza vaccine won’t stop all cases of flu, but it lowers the likelihood of seeking medical care, hospitalization, ICU admission, ventilator use, and death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is changing its message with a new campaign called Wild to Mild, emphasizing that the vaccine may not prevent all infections but can make them less severe.
Since the influenza season is just beginning, it is too early to assess vaccine effectiveness. However, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) typically recommends the flu vaccine for everyone over six months old. Pediatricians should pay particular attention to children under two years old and those with asthma or weakened immune systems, as they are at a higher risk of hospitalization. One noteworthy change is that the past recommendation against the flu vaccine for those with egg allergies no longer applies, as newer manufacturing techniques have made it safe for most individuals.
In terms of influenza treatment options, there are oral antivirals, inhaled medications, and intravenous treatments available. These options can reduce symptoms if taken within 48 hours of symptom onset. Oral and inhaled medications can also be used preventively after exposure to the virus, but it’s important to consult with your primary care physician for guidance on whether they are necessary.
Differentiating between the common cold and influenza can be challenging, as they share many similar symptoms. Both can present with fever, cough, runny nose, congestion, and sore throat. Some individuals, especially those with asthma, may experience shortness of breath with either illness. The common cold is caused by various respiratory viruses, while influenza typically involves severe body aches often described as feeling like being run over by a truck.
Influenza spreads through respiratory droplets, and the main preventive measures include covering coughs and sneezes, wearing masks, and keeping sick children home from school. However, taking time off from work and workplace policies can make this a challenging task for parents.
As we navigate through another flu season alongside the ongoing challenges of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections, it is crucial for parents to prioritize vaccination, follow preventive measures, and seek medical advice if symptoms arise. By staying informed and taking appropriate precautions, we can make a significant impact on reducing the severity and spread of the influenza virus.
