Winter vaccines for the family
As we head into winter with the inevitable colds and flu to welcome us, the question of immunisation becomes an important one. In addition to the ones already recommended on the Australian Childhood Immunisation Register (ACIR), what about the flu shot? How do we prepare our children for the shots, and what about side effects?
Here is a flu overview for 2012:
What is ‘the flu’?
The flu is different for a common cold. Common symptoms of the flu include a sudden onset of fever, sore throat and muscle aches, lasting around one week as the virus infects the nose, throat and sometimes the lungs. Complications can develop, such as pneumonia and bronchitis.
How is the flu virus spread to other people?
The flu virus can spread easily from person to person through infected droplets in the air (sneezes and coughing are the main culprits) and by hands carrying the virus (effective handwashing can help to prevent the virus from being spread). You’ll notice symptoms around 1-3 days after being in contact with an infected person.
Who should receive the flu vaccine?
The 2012 seasonal trivalent influenza vaccine is designed to provide protection against contracting the communicable disease. The Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing recommends that anyone (from 6 months of age) who wishes to be protected from the flu should be immunised.
Which vaccines are OK for children?
It’s been recommended that Vaxigrip® or Fluarix®, be used for children between 6 months and 10 years. In previous years a vaccine called Fluvax® caused some adverse reactions in some children. It is no longer recommended for use in children under the age of 5 years, so do check that one of the approved vaccines is being used. If this is the first year you have immunised your child against the flu, it is recommended that they receive 2 immunisations a month apart to gain full protection
Of course, if your baby, toddler or child suffers from a chronic medical condition you should seek medical advice before receiving the influenza vaccine.
Can the flu vaccine be given at the same time as other vaccines on the childhood immunisation register?
It has been identified that there may be a small increase in the risk of fever and febrile convulsions if the influenza vaccine and the pneumococcal disease vaccine (Prevenar 13) are given at the same time to children aged six months to less than five years, particularly for those between 12–24 months of age. These two vaccines can be given separately, with at least a three-day interval between them, to reduce the likelihood of fever and febrile convulsions. Talk to your doctor about the best way to manage the administration of the vaccines.
Is the Flu vaccine covered by medicare?
Free Flu Vaccines are available if you are pregnant (at any stage of your pregnancy) or for your baby who is 6 months of age and over with a chronic condition predisposing to severe influenza illness that requires regular medical follow-up or hospitalisation such as:
- cardiac disease
- respiratory disease including severe asthmatics
- kidney disease
- diabetes
- impaired immunity
- neuromuscular disease
Please note that whilst the vaccination is free, your GP may charge a consultation fee and you should check this before making your appointment.
You’ll need to talk to your immunisation provider about the costs of purchasing the vaccine is you do not fall into the categories above.
How can parents prepare their children for these shots?
Family Doctor, Duncan Jefferson, advises: “Treat it as a regular visit to the doctor; it’s likely to be far less painful than a tumble in the garden. Parents need to see this as an opportunity to protect their children, if parents are relaxed; children are more likely to follow their cues.”
Are there side effects from the flu vaccine?
Generally, reactions to the flu vaccine will occur within the first 24 to 48 hrs. These reactions commonly begin 6 to 12 hours after vaccination.
Dr Jefferson suggests that whilst there are likely to be visual side effects like local soreness, redness or even bruising parents should not be overly concerned. However, “if there is excessive swelling at the site, or the child has a fever (38.50+), vomiting or malaise, seek a doctor’s advice immediately, don’t wait. Parents must act on their concerns.”
For parents who have children who have had a bad experience with an injection or are likely to react badly Dr Jefferson advises talking to the GP or nurse before attending the appointment. Topical creams are expensive and should only be used in consultation with a medical professional.
Resources for parents
Immunise Australia Hotline 1800 671 811
Immunise Australia Program
WA Department of Health website
Tel: +61 8 9222 4222
NSW Department of Health website
Tel: +61 2 9391 9000
SA Department of Health website
Tel: +61 8 8226-6000
