2023-12-13 17:02:41
Flu Season is Coming: Is it Too Late to Get the Flu Shot?
The next flu wave is on the horizon, and with the annual flu season set to begin in January, many parents are left wondering if it’s too late to get their children vaccinated. According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), the flu wave typically starts in January and lasts for three to four months. Since the immune system takes around 14 days to build up protection against the flu, getting vaccinated now is crucial to ensure protection for the upcoming flu season.
While the RKI recommends getting vaccinated in October or November for optimal protection, a vaccination now can still be effective. It’s important to note that vaccination protection wears off after around six months, so getting the flu shot now is essential for staying protected during the peak of the flu season.
But who should get vaccinated? The RKI’s Standing Vaccination Commission (STIKO) advises that people aged 60 and over, pregnant women, children (from six months of age), and adults with certain pre-existing illnesses should have a flu vaccination. However, healthy children who do not fall into these categories are not on the recommendation list for the flu vaccination, as the vaccine is only approved for infants aged 6 months and over.
But with influenza being just as contagious as a cold, some experts support vaccination for healthy children. “Influenza can be severe in childhood, and the vaccination is very well tolerated and has been used for a long time,” says Professor Johannes Hübner from the Haunerschen Children’s Hospital in Munich. The “herd effect” can also be achieved through the strategy of vaccinating the environment, indirectly protecting at-risk patients.
Ultimately, the decision to vaccinate your child against the flu is up to you, and it’s best to discuss any concerns with your pediatrician. It’s important to note that some EU countries already recommend a flu vaccination for healthy children, and the World Health Organization (WHO) also recommends flu vaccination for all children aged six months and over.
If you decide against a flu vaccination for your child, it’s crucial to focus on maintaining a healthy immune system through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Overall, as flu season approaches, it’s important for parents to consider the best course of action for their children’s health and well-being.]
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