Doctor Nguyen Tien Dao, Medical Manager of VNVC Vaccination System, said the flu is common in young children during seasonal changes. Alongside this, other respiratory pathogens like Covid-19 are also on the rise.
Young children have underdeveloped immune systems and haven't learned proper hygiene. They often put their hands, and objects they hold, in their mouths, noses, and eyes, making them vulnerable to illness. Children who attend school or daycare, participate in activities in crowded places like classrooms, clubs, libraries, and enclosed spaces are at increased risk. These environments facilitate the spread of the flu virus.
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A boy suffering from influenza A with acute respiratory failure complications being treated at Phu Tho Provincial Maternity and Children's Hospital in February. Photo: Phu Tho Provincial Maternity and Children's Hospital |
A boy suffering from influenza A with acute respiratory failure complications being treated at Phu Tho Provincial Maternity and Children's Hospital in February. Photo: Phu Tho Provincial Maternity and Children's Hospital
The flu often lasts longer in young children, causing fever, body aches, coughing, and sore throats. Due to the discomfort and fatigue, children may refuse to feed or experience loss of appetite, leading to a weakened immune system. Their underdeveloped respiratory systems have a reduced ability to expel the virus through coughing, further promoting viral replication and increasing the risk of complications like pneumonia, encephalitis, myocarditis, and otitis media.
Damage to the mucous membranes caused by the flu also creates an environment for pneumococcal bacteria residing in the throat, and other agents like staphylococcus aureus and Covid-19, to invade, exacerbating pneumonia.
"Without prompt treatment, children risk multi-organ damage, heart failure, and respiratory failure," said Dr. Dao.
Dr. Dao recommends families prioritize flu prevention rather than waiting for infection to occur. Flu vaccines are available for children from 6 months of age, offering up to 90% protection against the illness, a 60% reduction in flu-related illnesses, and a 70-80% decrease in mortality.
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Children receiving vaccinations at VNVC. Photo: Moc Mien |
Children receiving vaccinations at VNVC. Photo: Moc Mien
Current vaccines protect against 4 strains of influenza: A (H1N1, H3N2) and B (Yamagata, Victoria). The inactivated vaccine, made from killed viruses, is safe for young children and individuals with compromised immune systems. The subunit vaccine contains only surface antigens of the virus, resulting in good immunogenicity and fewer side effects like fever or pain at the injection site.
Children aged 6 months to under 9 years who have not previously received a flu shot require two doses at least one month apart, followed by an annual booster. Children 9 years and older need one initial dose and an annual booster.
Pregnant women should also get vaccinated, as the vaccine provides protection for the baby before they are old enough for vaccination. Pregnant women can receive the flu shot at any stage of pregnancy, ideally from the second trimester onwards.
To enhance preventative measures: avoid crowded places with children, teach them to wash their hands frequently before eating and after using the toilet, and discourage touching their eyes, nose, and mouth. Schools should maintain clean, well-ventilated, and brightly lit classrooms. Surfaces such as floors, doorknobs, desks, and student belongings should be disinfected regularly.
Children need a nutritious diet, regular gargling and nasal rinsing with saline solution to boost their resistance, and regular exercise to improve their physical condition.
Families should closely monitor their children's health, especially during unpredictable weather. If a child shows signs of illness, seek medical attention promptly. Avoid self-medicating or using folk remedies, which can worsen the condition.
Tuan An
