The vaccination against the gripe in children is a fundamental measure to reduce the transmission of the virus and prevent serious complications, especially in the little ones, who are more vulnerable to this disease. Every year, health authorities and the Spanish Association of Pediatrics (AEP) issue recommendations to ensure that minors receive adequate protection.
In this context, the Dr. Mar López Suredaknown on social networks as @marlopez_pediatrahas shared through Instagram an explanatory message about the vaccination campaign of the flu in minors. In his publication, the pediatrician reports that several schools have already begun to contact parents of children between two and five years old to administer the intranasal vaccinea less invasive method than traditional injections. According to him, this vaccine is practically painless, describing it as “less bothersome than a nasal wash“.
“If they have called you from school because your child is between two and five years old and they are going to give him the intranasal vaccine, keep in mind that it does not hurt and is gentle, less than a nasal wash”
“If they have called you from school because your son is between two and five years old and they are going to give him the intranasal vaccine“Keep in mind that it does not hurt and is gentle, less than a nasal wash,” he clarifies. Lopez Sureda. Additionally, for those parents who have not received notice from the school, Lopez Sureda remember the importance of taking the initiative and contacting your health center to schedule the vaccinationespecially if the child is between six months and two years old, since in that age group the vaccine it’s not intranasalbut injected.
The Dr. Lopez also clarifies that, for the youngest children, that is, those between six months and two years, the vaccine It is applied by injection in health centers, due to the limitation of use intranasal in this age group.
On the other hand, the expert highlights that the vaccination Not only does it protect children from infection, but it also reduces transmission of the virus to vulnerable people, such as grandparents, and helps avoid complications such as pneumonia. “One has to vaccinate because one, you protect him, since the flu is very contagious and the incidence in children is very high. Two, you reduce transmission and thus do not infect grandparents, and three, you protect them from possible complications such as, for example, pneumonia“.
Finally, the expert answers the most frequently asked questions from parents about whether vaccine is financed: between six months and five years, the vaccine is included in the calendar vaccination and, therefore, financed. However, for children over five years of age, the AEP also recommends the vaccinationalthough in this case, it is not funded, so parents should consult their health center about how to proceed.
ConSalud’s content is prepared by journalists specialized in health and endorsed by a committee of top-level experts. However, we recommend that the reader consult any health-related questions with a healthcare professional.
Flu Vaccination in Children: A Comedy of Errors or a Serious Matter?
Ah, the flu vaccination! Like a pie in the face, it’s messy, but boy, is it necessary! If you haven’t noticed, health authorities across Spain are on a roll—publicising the importance of vaccinating our little ones against the seasonal flu, or as we fancy it, “gripe.” Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Who wants to get jabbed every year?” Well, settle down, because this year there’s an intranasal vaccine, and it’s about as invasive as a gentle sneeze.
Dr. Mar López Sureda: The Pied Piper of Vaccination
Enter Dr. Mar López Sureda, the superhero of social media—no cape, just a white coat and a flair for Instagram! @marlopez_pediatra is our guiding light through the fog of flu misinformation. He’s been handing out the scoop on this year’s vaccination campaign like a stand-up comic at a sold-out show. Schools are reportedly contacting parents of children aged two to five for this nasal vaccine. Yes, you heard it right: it’s intranasal! Less painful than a nasal wash, he says. Who knew saving lives could come with such a gentle touch?
“If they have called you from school because your child is between two and five years old and they are going to give him the intranasal vaccine, keep in mind that it does not hurt and is gentle, less than a nasal wash.”
Bravo, Dr. Sureda! But for parents of the younger tots—those under two years old—the traditional needle is still on the menu. Yes, my friends, injections! It might feel like you’re being stabbed with a tiny, tiny sword, but alas, we must press on for the greater good!
Why Bother with Vaccination?
Now, let’s pull a few threads out of this vaccination sweater. Just why should we all rally behind this cause? Firstly, Dr. Lopez makes it crystal clear: vaccinating your child protects them from the flu, which, let’s be honest, is about as contagious as gossip at a family reunion. Secondly, it takes aim at stopping the flu from spreading to those who might crumble at the mere sight of a sneeze—like your grandparents! And thirdly, no one wants their kid developing complications like pneumonia. If “the flu” came with a tagline, it would be: “Not just your regular cough and cold!”
“One has to vaccinate because, one, you protect him, since the flu is very contagious… two, you reduce transmission and thus do not infect grandparents, and three, you protect them from complications such as pneumonia.”
To Pay or Not to Pay: A Parent’s Dilemma
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room—the cost! For kids aged six months to five years, the vaccination is included in the calendar and, wait for it… it’s financed! But if your little angel is over five, they might have to cough up some cash. So, I suggest checking in with your local health center. You’d rather be spending on the vaccine than on a full-blown cough-a-thon.
In conclusion, folks, getting your child vaccinated is not just a smidgen important; it’s essential for community health. Plus, think of all the extra hugs you’ll be able to give your grandparents without the fear of flu transmission looming over you! Now, go out there, contact your health centre, and let’s make this flu season less about fear and more about fun—or at least less about tissues and more about smiles.
For any lingering questions about health, don’t forget to consult a healthcare professional. And remember, laughter is the best medicine—after vaccination, of course!
