subject: Vaccinating Young Children Against the Flu [print this page] Vaccinating Young Children Against the Flu
Influenza, more commonly known as the flu, can be a serious and life-threatening illness for certain people groups. Young children, older adults, and individuals with health problems may experience serious complications from the flu. Many flu-related deaths are the result of pneumonia, complications from cardiopulmonary conditions, or the exacerbation of other chronic diseases. It is estimated that there are approximately 1 billion cases of flu around the world on an annual basis. Because the flu can seriously impact the health of young children it is important that children receive a yearly flu vaccination such as VAXIGRIP Junior.VAXIGRIP Junior -VAXIGRIP Junior is an influenza vaccine that may be used to protect children ages 6 to 35 months from three types of influenza virus. This vaccine protects against influenza virus types A and B. A couple weeks after receiving the vaccine, the child's body will produce antibodies that should protect them from the nominated influenza strains for up to 12 months. Annual vaccinations are recommended for children ages 6 months or older that suffer from chronic conditions or are on long-term aspirin therapy. The flu vaccine is also suitable for anyone that wants to reduce their chances of contracting the influenza virus.Administration and Side Effects -Children between the ages of 6 and 35 months typically receive a single dose injection of .25 mL. The vaccine contains a flu virus that has been killed; therefore, the child will not become ill with the flu by simply receiving the vaccine. However, as with all medications, flu vaccines do carry risks of side effects. Mild side effects may include things such as redness or swelling around the injection site, fever, and headaches and should disappear within 1-2 days. More severe side effects that may need medical attention include: weakness in the arms or legs, swollen glands, shortness of breath, weak pulse, seizure, convulsion, or nerve pain.VAXIGRIP Junior Warnings -Certain allergies may preclude some children from receiving the vaccine. Children allergic to ingredients such as sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium phosphate (dibasic dihydrate), or potassium phosphate (monobasic) may not receive the VAXIGRIP Junior vaccine. Additionally, children that are allergic to eggs or egg products, chicken proteins, or the antibiotic neomycin should not receive the VAXIGRIP Junior vaccine.If a child has recently had an infection or high temperature, the vaccination may need to be delayed until the child is in better health. A mild cold will generally not be a cause for delay.
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