Doctor Dao Huu Nam, head of the intensive care unit at the National Children's Hospital's Center for Tropical Diseases, said that while seasonal flu now occurs year-round, it typically peaks in the fall.
Hospitalizations for flu among children often increase in September and October, particularly in densely populated cities with fluctuating weather. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also warned that this year's flu season is expected to be more complex, with an increase in severe cases requiring ventilation and intensive care, potentially straining healthcare systems.
The National Children's Hospital has seen a sharp rise in children seeking treatment for the flu in the past two months. Many have been hospitalized due to complications such as pneumonia, middle ear infections, and febrile seizures, all common and dangerous complications of influenza in children.
Seasonal flu typically begins with fever, dry cough, runny nose, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches. In children and individuals with underlying health conditions, the illness can progress rapidly, leading to severe complications like pneumonia, respiratory failure, myocarditis, encephalitis, dehydration, and secondary bacterial respiratory infections.
Doctor Doan Thi Phuong Lan, deputy director of the Respiratory Center at Bach Mai Hospital, explained that flu spreads rapidly through respiratory droplets, particularly in communities with low vaccination rates. The mortality and hospitalization rates due to influenza are significantly higher in older adults and those with underlying health conditions. People over 65 are seven times more likely to die from the flu than those aged 50-64. Following a flu infection, the risk of heart attack increases 6-10 times and the risk of stroke increases 3-10 times, especially during the first week.
Individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes and COPD are also more susceptible to contracting the flu and experiencing serious complications. Pregnant women who contract the flu face health risks for both themselves and their unborn child. Young children under 5 are particularly vulnerable to severe flu complications and are significant vectors of community transmission.
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A boy receives a flu shot. Photo: Duong Ngan |
A boy receives a flu shot. Photo: Duong Ngan
Experts explain that the fall months of September and October mark a seasonal transition with decreasing humidity and lower temperatures, creating ideal conditions for the flu virus to thrive and spread through the air. This period coincides with students returning to school and workplaces becoming crowded after the summer break. Crowded environments with poor ventilation become breeding grounds for respiratory transmission of the virus.
Annual flu vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of infection and hospitalization. For individuals with diabetes, flu vaccination can reduce severe complications by 72% in those under 65. For heart patients, the vaccine helps prevent heart attacks and strokes, events that can occur months after a flu infection. In COPD patients, vaccination helps reduce flare-ups and hospitalizations.
Therefore, all children from 6 months of age, adults over 65, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions should receive an annual flu shot. In addition to vaccination, frequent handwashing with soap or sanitizer is essential. Covering your mouth when coughing and limiting close contact when experiencing flu symptoms are also crucial. Wearing a mask in public places, especially for children attending school or crowded play areas, is recommended. Maintaining good home ventilation and regularly cleaning toys and household items is also advisable. Ensuring a nutritious diet helps strengthen the immune system, particularly in children.
Le Nga
