|
What's the Latest with the Flu
|
|
Special Alert – June 25, 2019
|
|
Current Influenza Activity
Influenza activity continues to decrease. As of June 15, 2019, there have been 119 influenza-associated pediatric deaths reported this season (187 deaths last season). The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends continuing to encourage annual influenza vaccination through June 30, when this current season's vaccine expires. It is a good time to follow-up and vaccinate infants who were previously too young to get flu vaccine, but who are now 6 months of age (two doses given at least four weeks apart are recommended for children age 6 months through 8 years of age who are receiving an influenza vaccine for the first time). |
The AAP will no longer express a preference for the flu shot over nasal spray flu vaccine for children in the 2019-2020 flu season. The recommendation comes after the Academy reviewed current data on vaccine coverage and effectiveness and flu season characteristics. The supply of nasal spray flu vaccine will be limited during the 2019-'20 season due to manufacturing constraints.
What Parents Need to Know about the Flu.
Dr. T