Preventing Influenza in Infants and Young Children: What Can You Do as a Parent?

Influenza symptoms typically begin about 2 days after exposure to the virus, but they can appear anywhere from 1 to 4 days later¹. These symptoms can vary from mild to severe and usually appear suddenly⁶. Common influenza symptoms include^6,1:

• Sudden fever 

• Chills

• Dry cough 

• Sore throat

• Runny or congested nose 

• Headache

• Muscle or body aches 

• Fatigue 

   

Children may also experience vomiting and diarrhoea⁵. The cough associated with the flu can be severe and may last for 2 weeks or longer¹. Most people recover from the flu within a few days to less than two weeks⁶. 

In children, severe influenza-related symptoms that require medical attention may include⁶:

• Rapid or difficult breathing 

• Bluish lips or face

• Rib retractions with each breath 

• Chest pain

• Severe muscle pain (e.g., refusal to walk) 

• Signs of dehydration (e.g., no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying)

• Lack of alertness or interaction when awake 

• Seizures

• Fever over 104°F that doesn’t respond to medication 

• Any fever in infants under 12 weeks

• Fever or cough that initially improves but then worsens 

• Worsening of chronic medical conditions

   

Children may also experience complications that can be life-threatening and potentially fatal, including 6: 

• Sinus infections

• Ear infections 

• Pneumonia (lung infection caused by the flu virus alone or in combination with bacteria)

• Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart) 

• Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)

• Myositis or rhabdomyolysis (inflammation of muscle tissues) 

• Multi-organ failure (e.g., respiratory or kidney failure)

• Sepsis (bloodstream infections) 

• Worsening of chronic conditions (e.g., asthma or chronic heart disease)

   

Influenza vaccinations help lower the number of flu cases, hospital visits, and deaths each year 5. 

 

Importance of Influenza Vaccination

Influenza vaccination is a key measure to protect your child from the flu 5. The vaccination is recommended annually for children aged 6 months and older and stimulates the immune system to recognise and combat the influenza virus, reducing the chances of severe illness^5,7.  

 

Vaccinating children is vital as it prevents flu-related illnesses, minimises doctor visits and hospitalisations, and lowers the risk of severe symptoms, ICU care, and flu-related deaths. It is particularly important for children with chronic health conditions, as it helps manage these conditions and reduce the risk of complications⁸. 

 

As parents, you may want to consider the 7-Star Protection Programme, a comprehensive vaccination schedule created by the IAP Advisory Committee on Vaccination & Immunization Practices (ACVIP). This programme includes influenza vaccination and protection against other significant diseases such as Hepatitis A, Chickenpox, Mumps, Meningitis, and Rubella.  

 

Consult your paediatrician to learn more about the 7-Star Protection schedule. 

 

Practical Tips for Parents to Prevent Influenza 

Along with vaccination, parents can take additional measures to help reduce the spread of influenza viruses^1,5:

• Keep your child away from anyone who is ill. 

• If your child is unwell, have them stay home and minimise contact with others for at least 24 hours.

• Encourage your child to cover their coughs and sneezes with a tissue or their elbow, and ensure tissues are disposed of properly. 

• Use masks to help prevent the spread of the virus and protect against inhalation.

• Make sure your child washes their hands frequently with soap and water; if that's not possible, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. 

• Teach your child to avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth to prevent the spread of germs.

   

Conclusion 

Preventing influenza disease in infants and young children is vital due to their higher risk of severe complications^1,6. By understanding these risks, ensuring annual vaccinations, and following practical prevention measures, you can help lower the chances of your child contracting the flu and experiencing its harmful effects⁵.

Influenza vaccination is a key strategy for flu prevention, helping to reduce the incidence of illnesses, hospitalisations, and deaths each year⁵.  

 

Consult your paediatrician for advice and to ensure your child receives the essential vaccinations and care.