2023-09-04 15:15:01
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has released a statement on the prevention and control of influenza in children. The document contains clear terms, indications and contraindications for preventive vaccinations and the appointment of antiviral drugs for therapy.
AAP experts have updated recommendations for preventing and treating influenza in children during the coming cold season. Document published in Pediatrics magazine.
All children six months of age and older without medical contraindications are recommended to have an annual influenza vaccination. Any registered vaccine can be used for immunization according to age and health status as early as possible during the season.
Antiviral treatment is recommended for both suspected influenza (flu-like illness with fever, cough, or sore throat) and confirmed illness. For those hospitalized with severe/progressive illness or comorbidities that increase the risk of influenza complications, antiviral therapy should be initiated as soon as possible. In this case, the initiation of therapy does not depend on the duration of the disease.
In an outpatient setting, antiviral treatment may be considered for symptomatic children with suspected influenza or confirmed illness, unless there is a high risk of complications and if treatment can be initiated within 48 hours of illness onset.
Moreover, antiviral treatment may be considered for children with suspected or confirmed influenza who have family members who are sick. This applies to children under 6 months of age or who are at high risk for influenza complications.
In some cases, antiviral chemoprophylaxis is recommended to prevent infection with the influenza virus as an adjunct to vaccination. This tactic should be used for vaccinated children in high-risk groups, in whom the immune response may not yet be established or not effective enough.
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