As winter approaches, it is time for a new wave of seasonal influenza outbreaks that should not be overlooked. The government is actively encouraging the public to receive seasonal influenza vaccination, especially the elderly and children, who are the most at-risk groups. Many parents would like to know how to prepare their children for the seasonal epidemic. Stay tuned!

Influenza Facts

Seasonal influenza is an acute respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The influenza epidemic occurs in Hong Kong from January to March and April, and July to August. It is mainly caused by influenza A and B viruses. Seasonal influenza viruses can mutate and develop new strains from time to time with no pattern. For this reason, the World Health Organisation (WHO) will announce recommendations for the composition of influenza vaccines every year.

Although influenza and the common cold are both respiratory infections, they are caused by different viruses. Influenza is caused only by influenza viruses, whereas the common cold can be caused by rhinovirus, parainfluenza virus, and seasonal coronaviruses. In general, the symptoms of influenza are stronger and more sudden than those of the common cold. In severe cases, complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia may occur and may result in death.

Common symptoms of seasonal influenza:

• Fever

• Cough

• Sore throat

• Runny nose

• Muscle pain

• Fatigue

• Headache

• Potential vomiting and diarrhoea

Why may the flu season epidemic peak this winter?

Some medical experts are predicting an influenza “outbreak” in Hong Kong this year. This is because people have been wearing masks for nearly three years to prevent COVID-19, but this has also significantly helped influenza control in the past two to three years. For example, there is no seasonal influenza epidemic in 2021. Yet, the public’s herd immunity to influenza decreases due to prolonged mask-wearing. Along with the stabilisation of the COVID outbreak, more children are returning to normal activities such as going back to school, re-joining tutorial and interest classes, playing indoors or outdoors, having parties, etc. The reduction in mask-wearing and social distancing restrictions will intensify the development and infection of this year’s influenza.

Recommend Nasal Spray Influenza Vaccination for Children

In light of the imminent influenza epidemic, vaccination is one of the best preventive measures. The nasal spray influenza vaccine is particularly suitable for children who are afraid of needles. It is administered directly through the nasal cavity without the need for an injection, avoiding redness, swelling and pain at the site of injection, as well as reducing the fear of children. The nasal spray influenza vaccination is a quick and safe procedure and is suitable for people aged 2 to 49. Medical experts also recommend receiving early vaccination, as it requires 2 – 4 weeks for antibodies to develop and protect the body.

Primecare Influenza vaccination for children

If you are worried about your child getting influenza, you should get him/her vaccinated. Primecare offers both nasal spray influenza vaccination and quadrivalent influenza vaccination services for every child. You can enquire your doctor for details. Get vaccinated now and give your child extra protection.