Flu season is around the corner and it’s time to get your family vaccinated. We answer some of your most frequently asked questions about the flu shot in relation to children.
Did you know that according to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, the flu is responsible for 6 000 – 11 000 deaths every year in South Africa alone? Unfortunately, with common myths floating around like contracting flu from the vaccine itself, suffering severe side-effects, or simply not needing to be immunised if you’ve had the flu in the past, it’s no wonder people are hesitant to get the shot, never mind when it comes to their kids! However, the truth is that the flu vaccine is extremely safe and has the potential to protect your family from serious illness come the winter months.
To put your mind at ease, we answer some of your most burning questions:
Are there any side-effects associated with the vaccine?
The majority of adults and children won’t experience any side-effects at all after receiving their vaccination. However, some people – and children under the age of five, in particular – may experience mild flu-like symptoms, such as muscle aches and pains, a fever and a headache 1 – 2 days later. These symptoms shouldn’t last longer than 24 – 48 hours.
At what age can you start giving your child the flu shot?
Most medical professionals recommend that children start getting a flu shot from as young as six months old.
How much does the flu shot cost?
You can usually get it for under R100 at your local pharmacy, wellness centre or at your nearest DisChem or Clicks branch. Most GPs offer it too. Fedhealth members and their dependants can get the annual flu shot for free – a benefit that is paid from Risk.
Can the shot guarantee that my family won’t get the flu?
There is no such thing as a vaccine that can provide a 100% guarantee of protection against a disease or illness. Similarly, the flu vaccine can’t protect you from every strain of the flu. While there are three main types of flu (Type A, B and C), there are also hundreds of different strains within these types. In order to provide the most effective protection, scientists develop a new flu vaccine every year. This vaccine is developed in accordance with the specific strain(s) that they estimate are most likely to circulate, but this doesn’t mean that a new or an unplanned-for strain won’t rear its head in the meantime.
According to qualified paediatric nurse and midwife, Sister Marion Wing from The Baby Clinic in Bedfordview, Johannesburg: “The flu shot reduces children’s risk of contracting the flu by between 60 – 90% and also helps to reduce disease transmission at school. Generally, kids are much more likely to contract the virus because their immune system is still developing, which is why it’s essential for them to get the vaccine every year, especially up until the age of five.”
Can I get the vaccine if I’m pregnant?
Yes. In fact, you should. Contracting the flu while pregnant puts you at a higher risk of hospitalisation and even death. The good news is that it’s safe to get the shot at any time during your pregnancy.
Prevention is better than cure. If you have any further queries about getting your children vaccinated or about the flu shot in general, contact your GP or clinic nurse for guidance.
Sources:
http://www.nicd.ac.za/index.php/influenza-season-approaching/
https://www.webmd.com/children/vaccines/inactivated-flu-vaccine-what-you-need-know#1
https://www.cbc.ca/kidscbc2/the-feed/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-flu-shot
https://clicks.co.za/health/article-view/should-you-get-a-flu-vaccine
https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/advanced-reading-types-of-flu-viruses#2
https://www.healthline.com/health/flu-shot-side-effects
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/children.htm
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/Influenza/Pages/influenza_and_pregnancy.aspx
