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River Valley Pediatrics |
531 Central Park Avenue, Suite 102
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Influenza is a serious disease. In an average year, the flu causes 36,000 deaths and 114,000 hospitalizations in the United States. While the majority of deaths resulting from flu occur in the elderly, rates of infection are highest among children, and hospitalization rates among children under 12 months of age are similar to those of the elderly. Influenza is caused by a virus. The virus mutates rapidly, which is why vaccination must be performed yearly. Anitbiotics do not work against the flu. There are anti-viral medications that can be used in extreme circumstances. These medications are not nearly as effective as antibiotics (which are only for bacterial infections), only function if used before exposure or in the first 24-48 hours of the illness, and have some side effects. Many influenza strains are also becoming resistant to these medications. The most effective means we have to combat this virus is through vaccination and personal prevention via handwashing, keeping seriously ill children home from school or daycare, and avoiding ill people. Symptoms of the flu include high fevers, headache, fatigue, dry cough, sore throat and body aches. Children sometimes experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Flu is very contagious and is spread by coughs, sneezes, and by infectious particles left on surfaces (like door knobs, shopping carts). People with underlying medical conditions such as asthma are more susceptible to the flu, and their illness can be complicated by bacterial pneumonias and other serious infections. Every year public health scientists evaluate the influenza patterns from the prior year and use that information to choose the three strains of influenza to make up the new year's vaccine. Some years there are no changes. Some years there are three new strains. The viruses are killed, and one cannot "get the flu" from a flu vaccine. The flu vaccine does not protect against viruses other than the flu. This year, we are strongly recommending the flu vaccine for all children ages 6 months and above. The only exceptions would be those children who have a severe allergy to eggs or to any of the vaccine components. Side effects are mild and include a small possibility of temporary fever, crankiness, or body aches. The seasonal influenza vaccine does not protect against the novel, H1N1, or swine flu virus. Please see the H1N1 section for information on that virus. We currently have a large supply of vaccine and are vaccinating during our regular business hours. Please call as soon as possible for an appointment. |
