Can the Flu Vaccine Help your Child Be Safe Against Covid- 19?

The battle against the pandemic is still on, and though the severity of the second wave has decreased considerably, there is widespread speculation and preparation for the third wave. One more thing that is most problematic about the potential third wave is the possibility of kids being affected this time around.

While multiple studies have indicated that children are less likely to develop severe symptoms of the disease, there has already been a steady rise in the infection rates amongst kids in the past couple of months. There is still no assurance or guarantee as to whether children are completely protected from the virus. Epidemiological studies have also indicated that during the first wave, people above Sixty years of age were severely impacted, and during the second wave, the younger population was hit. Now that most adults are either vaccinated or infected, children could be at a higher risk of getting infected during the third wave. Thus, we need to ensure to look at ways to protect children or help reduce the severity of the illness.

At MommyWize, we have reached out to various experts and based on their inputs and research, we have come with all the possible information to address any queries or concerns you may have with regards to the flu vaccine.

Can the Flu Shot Help Mitigate the Effect of Third Wave on Children?

The Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP) has recommended giving annual flu shots to all children below five. Recent studies amongst Covid-infected children in Missouri and Michigan in the US have shown that the children who had been vaccinated with the inactivated influenza vaccine during the 2019-20 flu season in the US were less likely to get infected Covid-19 virus. Also, there is a reduced risk of suffering a severe disease if a child catches the infection. Typical symptoms of the Covid-19 virus are fatigue, cough, fever, headache, sore throat, and cold, which are pretty similar to the flu. Multiple studies and journals have revealed that children vaccinated with the influenza vaccine have much lesser odds of experiencing Covid-19 symptoms, respiratory problems, or severe disease.

Also Read: COVID 19 Vaccination for Kids, Pregnant Women & Lactating Moms-Know the update from Dr. Nihar Parekh

Importance of Getting the Flu Shot

Dr. Srikanta J T, Consultant, Paediatric Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine at Aster CMI Hospital, has stated that “influenza shots are vaccinations against the seasonal flu that is caused by the influenza viruses. The mortality rate of influenza is close to 1 percent, while the mortality rate of Covid-19 is close to 0.1 percent. Thus, it is crucial for children aged between 6 months and six years of age to get flu shots. The flu shot is more important with the pandemic in rage and the possibility of an impending third wave, as influenza infections and Covid-19 in children are quite similar, with fever and Coryzal symptoms (nasal discharge, nasal obstruction, sneezing, sore throat, general malaise, and cough), where some children may also require hospitalization and other supportive care. As both the infections are similar to each other, it is crucial to protect children with tried and tested vaccines.”

How Do Flu Vaccines Help?

If the influenza infection can be prevented in children through vaccination, then it will lead to a decreased requirement for Covid testing, reduce the healthcare burden, and not overburden Healthcare resources. Thus, though flu vaccines may not prevent Covid, they will reduce the burden of flu illnesses and conserve limited medical help for the care of children with Covid-19. In fact, Maharashtra’s pediatric force task force has recommended that immunization of all children against influenza play a vital role in the fight against the third wave of Covid.

How Does a Flu Shot Protect Kids?

Flu is an infectious disease that can take a significant toll on your child’s immunity. By getting your child vaccinated for the same, you are strengthening their immunity and decreasing the likelihood of hospital visits. Flu shots help reduce the risk of developing respiratory problems in children and stop the children from turning into super-spreaders of the disease. As per experts, flu shots can provide a possible benefit of ' viral interference&#39, thus, protecting children from acquiring severe infections from Covid-19. The first flu shot is generally given at six months of age after the birth of your child. Until then, the child has the mothers immunity to prevent them from the pathogens. Once the child turns six months, parents need to get their children vaccinated for flu each year until they turn five years of age. IAP and ACVIP (Advisory Committee on Vaccinations and Immunisations Practices) do not recommend routine vaccination after five years of age.

When Can your Kid be Vaccinated with the Flu Shot?

Based on recommendations from experts, October is the best month to get the influenza vaccine for your child to gain maximum protection against the influenza virus. According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), late October is the best month to get flu shots, and the agency suggests each child over six months to get vaccinated.

The similarity of Flu and Covid-19 Symptoms

Some of the most typical, prevalent, and similar symptoms of Covid-19 and the flu are as follows.

• Fever

• Loss of sense of smell

• Runny nose • Fatigue

• Sore throat

• Muscle pain or body aches

• Headache

Can Children Take Both Flu and Covid Vaccines, Once a Covid-19 Vaccine is Out for Children?

It is crucial to note that the Covid vaccine and flu vaccine are entirely different. A gap of four weeks should ideally be maintained between the two vaccines for the child to get ample time for the antibodies to develop and generate immunity against all viral interferences.

The Bottom Line

It is a well-known fact that the virus spares no one; thus, even if your child is vaccinated, it is essential that they still follow Covid Appropriate Behavior (CAB) as long as Covid-19 persists. Maintaining distance, frequent washing of hands, and avoiding touching the eyes, nose, and mouth are crucial during such times. If left unattended, children may touch infected or contaminated objects and surfaces which can cause an infection. To avoid that, make sure your children wash their hands. Regularly. Also, do ensure to provide well-balanced and nourishing meals to your children. Take precautions and do not panic.

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Also Read:

How to Prepare for the Third Wave of the Pandemic and Keep Kids safe

Pregnancy anxiety in COVID, COVID Vaccination and if this is the right time to plan the baby.

How to take care of Covid-19 at home? Home care Guidelines, Treatment, Symptoms and Precautions

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