No matter where you are located around the globe, it is possible to come into contact with Influenza. Also known as ‘The Flu’ influenza, it has the potential to be extremely dangerous and the serious cases might even lead to hospitalization and even death in certain cases. It is therefore extremely important to get the influenza vaccination for kids, as they are particularly at risk for the virus to become fatal. Each flu season is completely different from the last, with the rate of infection as well as the symptoms ranging from one to another. Nonetheless, millions of people get the flu each year, thousands of these people are hospitalized and during some severe seasons, thousands will also die from the virus. As a result, the way to protect these individuals is with a flu vaccine. Vaccination brings with it a wide array of benefits, including reducing the risk of illness, hospitalization and also reducing the overall number of individuals who are at risk of death. Alternatives to a vaccine include flu medicine for kids as well as cough medicine for kids however neither of these are for prevention. They work as a treatment once the virus has been contracted.
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How do flu vaccines work?
Flu vaccines work much like any other vaccine available. They provide the body with a small dose of the virus, which allows for antibodies to develop in the body. These antibodies provide protection against infection which reduces the individual’s risk of catching it.
The seasonal flu vaccine protects people from the influenza virus that will be the most common form during the next season. The most common flu viruses include: influenza A (H1N1) virus, an influenza A (H3N2) virus, and two influenza B viruses. Some vaccines have been specially designed for people over the age of 65 in order to create a stronger immune response.
What Flu Vaccines Are Available?
There are many different influenza vaccine manufacturers around the globe as well as many influenza products which are licensed and recommended for use in various countries. As a result, depending on where you are located throughout the world, it is likely you will receive a slightly different vaccine. The most common vaccines include trivalent (three-component) and quadrivalent (four-component) influenza vaccines which are available to individuals of all age groups.
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Trivalent influenza vaccines are so far adequate for 65-year-olds and older, making use of a higher dosage to ensure the individual is effectively protected. On the other hand, Quadrivalent. influenza shots are licensed for different age groups. Many are licensed for children above the age of 6 months, who are particularly prone to the symptoms of the virus.
The shots themselves are provided in the arm using a needle and require only 1 injection to be effective. Following the shot, it is not uncommon for individuals to display some symptoms for the next few days, however these are significantly more mild than the real virus. Due to the fact flu can impact anyone, it is advised by most government boards that everyone over the age of 6 months receives a vaccine for influenza.
Should I Get Vaccinated This Flu Season?
Every season, anyone over the age of 6 months should get a flu vaccine. This can be done at your local doctors by simply booking an appointment. Unfortunately, this must be repeated every nine to twelve months as each year a different strain of flu will impact each country.
Although everyone should get their own vaccine, it is particularly important for individuals who are at risk of developing serious complications to get the vaccine. This can include people with heart problems, diabetes, and other underlying health conditions. On top of that , Singapore Health Ministry also strongly advise children between 6 months & 5 year old, elderly & pregnant lady to receive the flu vaccination. If you are unsure as to whether or not you or a loved one should get a vaccine, consult your doctor directly and they can answer any concerns you may have.
Who Should Not Be Vaccinated?
There are a wide array of factors that can determine a person’s suitability for vaccination. These include the age of an individual, their current and past health, any allergies they have as well as the components of the flu vaccine itself.
Some vaccines may not be appropriate for children and thus it is always a good idea to talk to your doctor directly. In addition to this, if you have any underlying health conditions or you have recently been very unwell, contact your doctor and they can provide you with the required medical advice you need to ensure you are protected.
Within each country, there are many different vaccines to choose from. This means that all individuals over the age of 6 months should be able to get the vaccine each year. There is a wide range of information available online regarding which vaccine is most suitable for which age group. This information can be found on many government websites as well as on your local doctor’s website too. If you have any questions, consult a medical professional directly, as they will be able to point you in the right direction based on your personal circumstances. No matter your circumstances, do not leave things to chance.
Flu medicine for kids as well as cough medicine for kids
Flu medicine for kids are symptomatic relief medicine that provide comfort for kids . For example, antihistamine [ chlorpheniramine polaramine, atirizin ] helps to dry the runny nose . Flu medicine is generally safe if taken according to instruction.
Cough medicine for kids , on the other hand , may not be suitable for kids. Great caution should be exercised & pro methane & codeine should be refrained from especially below 2 year old kids . Possibility of respiratory depression or arrest have been documented . Hence , cough medicine for adult should not be given to kids thinking that a reduced dose is safe . Such a presumption about cough medicine for kids is erroneous. It is to consult a doctor when coming to “cough medicine for kids”.
