Why flu vaccines are needed before summer ends and rainy season begins?

As the flu season approaches, experts are advocating annual Influenza vaccination for all children aged 6 months to 5 years of age as it is a known fact that the symptoms of influenza virus and Covid-19 tend to mimic each other, leading to fear and anxiety among parents of young children. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Anish Pillai, Lead Consultant- Neonatology and Paediatrics at Motherhood Hospitals in Kharghar and Navi Mumbai, shared, “Even though monsoon is known to provide that much-needed relief from the scorching summer heat, it is known to set the stage for a plethora of health problems, one of them being the ‘common cold’ or flu infection. The traditional flu shot contains inactivated flu viruses, making it extremely safe and efficacious.” Dr Anish Pillai elaborated, “Parents should not skip the flu vaccination fearing side effects, as they are minimal in the form of fever, headache and swelling for a day or two at the injection site. Other measures: To prevent flu, parents should teach children to cover their mouth and nose while coughing/ sneezing, wash hands regularly, maintain a safe distance from people, wear a mask if unwell, avoid crowded places or being around sick people and eat a nutritious diet to boost immunity.”