Bengaluru: With the absence of covid vaccinations for children, many parents seek flu shots for their children before sending them to school for offline classes.
While the doctor mandates them for children with asthma, some children without such breathing conditions also choose annual influenza vaccination.
Flu injections are not included in the universal immunization scheme center and are not available for free in government hospitals.
The price is Rs 1,500-2,000 per dose, depending on the brand.
Dr.
Archana M, Consultants, Mediatric Infectious Diseases, Manipal Hospitals, said there were cases of children with lower respiratory infections that change positively for Influenza B.
“The majority of influenza B cases are treated at home.
They are all negative covid.
In some cases , older children also need the support of hospitalization and oxygen, and suffer from secondary bacterial infections.
The severity of the disease and secondary infection can be prevented if the child has taken a flu injection, “said Dr.
Archana.
Some corporate hospitals have drives flu vaccination for children in the apartment complex.
Manipal Hospital has done one, where the registration form and declaration need to be filled by parents first about medical history and child allergies, if any.
Video conferencing is done with parents.
On vaccination day in the apartment complex, the doctor in the place verifies the medical history of children and shots is given only if he is healthy.
So far, 63 children have been given flu shots by drive by the apartment.
The injection of the Flu has a 60-70% efficacy of influenza, but does not provide protection from Covid, said Dr.
Preeti Galagali, a pediatrician.
“It’s optional, but suggests for children who suffer from recurrent respiratory infections so that they do not cause complications even if a child suffers from influenza.
Because of the symptoms of the two viral infections (covid and influenza) are similar, it is recommended.
Shots are a must for children With comorbidity, “said Dr.
Galagali.