Influenza Immunisation (The Flu-Jab) for children

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goodtoknow says: Children can be susceptible to flu (influenza), a common infection of the upper respiratory tract. Colds and flu are caused by viruses and are contagious, passed by tiny droplets and hand contact. The flu virus is constantly changing with new strains appearing each year. If your child has flu they may feel quite poorly with a fever, aches and pains the most common symptoms. They may also have a blocked nose and sore throat. They should recover rapidly though. Make sure they rest and give them liquid paracetamol to bring down the fever and plenty of fluids. The flu jab will only be given to children who are at risk, such as those with low immunity or other health problems.

For a full medical explanation of the causes, symptoms and treatments of influenza from patient.co.uk, read on.

You should have a 'flu-jab' each autumn if you are at increased risk of developing complications or problems if you get flu (influenza).

What is influenza?

Influenza (flu) causes a high temperature (fever), muscle aches, cough, and various other symptoms. Each year a different strain of the influenza virus causes a winter outbreak of flu. If you are normally well, flu usually lasts a few days, and then goes as your immune system clears the virus. However, some people who have flu develop serious complications such as pneumonia. Many people in the UK die each year (mostly elderly people) from the complications of flu.

Note: bird flu (avian influenza) is different to the usual 'human' flu. A separate leaflet deals with bird flu. Influenza immunisation only protects against 'human flu' strains of the influenza virus.