As we enter the peak of flu season, data from the Health Protection Centre of the Department of Health reveals an increasing trend in positive laboratory surveillance rates, influenza-related hospital admissions in public hospitals, and severe cases of the flu. Vulnerable individuals with weakened immune systems, such as children and the elderly, are at a higher risk of contracting the flu. In the case of children experiencing their first flu infection, the severity of symptoms and illness may be more pronounced.

Childhood Immunity Building Impacted by Pandemic

Influenza, a highly contagious acute respiratory infection, is primarily transmitted through droplets and direct contact. It typically occurs during the months of January to March and July to August, earning it the title of "seasonal flu". Encountering the flu virus can lead to symptoms similar to the common cold, including high fever, sore throat, cough, nasal congestion, body aches, and gastrointestinal discomfort. This often leaves parents uncertain about the specific illness affecting their children.

The immune systems of infants and young children are not fully developed, making their immune response relatively weaker. Engaging in regular social activities and contact plays a crucial role in helping their bodies build immunity. However, during the recent years of the pandemic, infants and young children have faced prolonged mask-wearing, school closures, and reduced opportunities for outdoor activities. These limitations have unfortunately resulted in missed opportunities for boosting their immune systems.

Implications suggest that once children contract the flu, they may experience more severe symptoms and have an increased risk of complications such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and even shock, potentially leading to hospitalization or, in severe cases, death. In order to minimize the risk of infection, complications, and mortality, doctors strongly advise early influenza vaccination for infants and young children.

Injectable & Nasal Spray Influenza Vaccines

As of 1 January this year, the vaccination coverage for individuals aged 6 months to under 18 years old stands at 51.3%, leaving nearly half of infants and young children unvaccinated against the flu. Currently, there are two types of influenza vaccines available on the market: injectable inactivated influenza vaccine and nasal spray attenuated vaccine. Since the flu virus undergoes frequent mutations, the circulating strains vary each year, necessitating a yearly update of the vaccine formulation. Therefore, it is recommended to receive the influenza vaccine annually.

The injectable inactivated influenza vaccine is suitable for individuals aged 6 months and above, while the intranasal live attenuated vaccine is recommended for individuals between 2 and 49 years old. For the 2023/24 seasonal influenza, the Department of Health advises the following dosage for this quarter:

．Infants and children aged 6 months to 9 years who have never received the flu vaccine: 2 doses of the flu vaccine are recommended, with a minimum interval of 28 days between doses.

．Infants and children aged 6 months to 9 years who have previously received the flu vaccine: 1 dose of the flu vaccine is recommended.

．Anyone aged 9 years or older: 1 dose of the flu vaccine is recommended.

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