Influenza vaccine is the best option available to protect your child from being infected and unwell from, the virus influenza, commonly known as ‘the flu’. This flu vaccine is advised for all children above 6 months of age. Any child with long-term medical health conditions may have immunity less and be prone to flu infection. It is recommended to have regular yearly Influenza vaccination in this case. Furthermore, all the l household members should also be vaccinated to minimize the incidence of your child being exposed.
The flu vaccine is free of cost in NSW for up to five years of age or a child with a chronic or complex medical illness like Chronic lung or heart conditions, immunodeficiency, etc c. It is also free for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and pregnant women. The influenza vaccine is produced by different companies and hence has different brand names like FluQuadri, Fluarix Tetra, etc
The vaccine is administered by intramuscular injection, mostly given in the upper arm or the thigh for babies by a trained healthcare professional. It is given in two doses for children less than nine years old who are receiving the vaccine for the first time. The Influenza vaccine is given usually before the start of every winter. The flu virus is common from the end of May to September. Some children may develop unwanted side effects like redness, fever, aches, and pain that can last up to 48 hours.
Influenza vaccinations are safe and a child with an allergy to eggs can receive the vaccine.
You should call an ambulance immediately if your child develops any signs of a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis.