Bolzano – In the past two years, the respiratory masks have protected us, but flu-like illnesses are now returning with full force. Children in particular are affected. Although vaccination would help, many families are still reluctant.
The actual flu epidemic usually does not appear before Christmas. This year it seems to be different. The fact that we hardly ever wear a mask when there are crowds of people, for example on the streets in the cities or in the supermarket, seems to be having an effect.
Those affected suffer from cough, cold and sore throat. To rule out a corona infection, many take a test to be on the safe side. But the spread of the virus seems to be relatively stable at the moment.
But even when it comes to flu-like infections, South Tyroleans are still reluctant to get vaccinated. “The medical company has calculated that Lana needs 240 doses. I have vaccinated 140 patients. That’s more than half,” said Domenico Bossio, family doctor in Lana, with satisfaction.
Doctors always recommend vaccination against influenza and pneumonia caused by pneumococci. Similar to Corona, this applies in particular to fragile patients, such as seniors or the chronically ill.
Pediatrician Emanuela Pedevilla also confirms that this time the flu syndrome is particularly aggressive in children. “Many paediatricians are seeing a sharp increase in visits and consultations,” she explains, according to a report in the Italian daily Alto Adige.
The disease is characterized by a high fever for the first three to four days, with peaks of up to 40 degrees. In addition, the children suffer from colds and coughs. According to the ministerial circular, vaccination is recommended for children aged six months to six years.
Influenza syndromes often find ideal conditions in kindergartens, crèches and schools to multiply. Children then also carry the disease home to the family and may also infect grandparents. “There are families who are locked at home for three weeks – a real mini lockdown,” explains Pedevilla.
Because caring for sick children is not always easy, especially for working parents, a higher vaccination rate would certainly be helpful. “Many parents are well informed, react sensitively to the topic and have their children vaccinated,” explains Pedevilla. Nevertheless, an increase in the vaccination rate is necessary in the coming years, whereby the vaccination is also suitable for children over the age of six.
From: mk