Dr. Rashna Dass Hazarika, a leading pediatrician at RIGPA Children’s Clinic, is urging parents to prioritize flu vaccinations for children amid this year’s erratic monsoon. The fluctuating weather conditions are fostering an increase in seasonal influenza, with children particularly at risk.
The monsoon’s unpredictability has exacerbated flu transmission, with rising air pollution in drought-prone areas weakening children’s immune systems. Regions experiencing waterlogging are witnessing a surge in mold and fungi, posing additional health risks. Crowded indoor spaces due to heavy rains are also contributing to the rapid spread of the flu.
The Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP) advises annual flu vaccinations for children aged 6 months to 5 years to prevent severe complications such as pneumonia. Dr. Hazarika emphasizes the importance of proactive healthcare, stating, “Children under 5 are highly vulnerable to flu-related complications. The 4-in-1 annual flu vaccine is crucial for their protection.”With flu viruses mutating yearly, Dr. Hazarika stresses the need for updated vaccinations based on WHO guidelines. She advises parents to consult with healthcare providers promptly, ensuring their children’s safety and contributing to broader community immunity.
