Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious viral infection that can make your child very sick. It is different from the common cold virus.
The virus that causes the flu mainly spreads by tiny particles or droplets of fluid that are made when people who are infected with it cough, sneeze, or talk. These tiny particles or droplets of fluid can be breathed in by other people who are nearby.
Less commonly, a person might get the flu by touching a surface or object that has the flu virus on it, and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.
Children may develop a fever, headache, cough, sore throat, and feelings of tiredness. Babies and children may also vomit and have diarrhoea.
While the flu is common, it can be serious. It can cause other serious complications like severe lung infections and seizures that can lead to hospitalisation.
In Australia, children under five have some of the highest rates of influenza hospitalisation. Vaccination is the best way to protect your child from the disease.
For children six months or older, vaccination is recommended every year in April or May. This is so that the children are protected before the peak of the flu season, which usually runs from June to September.
Yearly flu vaccinations are recommended as they provide the best protection for your child. The flu virus can change year to year, so your child would need a new and updated vaccine each year before the peak flu season.
The flu vaccine is free under the National Immunisation Program for children under five years. It is also free for expectant mothers. A flu vaccination while you're pregnant not only protects you, it also protects your newborn for their first six months. The flu vaccination is safe during every trimester.
The vaccine provides immunity to influenza to help prevent your child from getting the disease. It contains an inactive and safe form of influenza and trains your child's immune system to recognise and protect against the infection.
Vaccination reduces the chances of getting the flu, and if they do get it, they have less risk of serious illness and hospitalisation.
Your child may experience mild reactions to the vaccine, which usually disappears within a few days. Common reactions include redness, swelling, and soreness at the injection site, a mild fever, and tiredness.
In this video, hear from Dr Jeff Wang who shares what influenza is and what it can look like in children. He also shares how the flu vaccine under the National Immunisation Program is free for children and pregnant people to give the best protection against the disease.