Last year there was a large increase in the number of febrile seizures in young children following influenza vaccination. This was noted particularly in Western Australia, which was conducting a study of the benefits of a free influenza vaccination program for children aged 6months to 4 years. These reactions were associated with a single brand of vaccine (Fluvax) and not with the others in use last year. Fluvax was withdrawn from use in children last year and is no longer registered by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for use in young children. Other vaccines found to be safe in 2010 have been approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and are available for use in young children in 2011.

The Influenza Specialist Group (ISG) understands that some people may have concerns regarding the safety of influenza vaccine in infants.  However prior to this, febrile seizures had been a rare complication among the millions of children internationally who had received influenza vaccine over a number of decades. Experience with influenza vaccines in children during the 2010-2011 northern hemisphere winter has also been reassuring.  

Following consideration of all available information by Australian vaccination experts and the TGA, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) continues to recommend influenza vaccination in children and adults, apart from the use of Fluvax in children under 5 years of age, and free vaccination for young children will again be offered in Western Australia. Of course, it is important to first consult a healthcare professional when seeking an influenza vaccination and discuss any concerns.

Each year many children are hospitalised in Australia due to influenza, some of whom become seriously ill or die. At least half of these children had no previous underlying illness. Vaccination remains the single most effective measure for preventing influenza and its complications. Therefore, the Influenza Specialist group strongly supports the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation’s current recommendations and the WA Government’s decision to continue its study, both of which the ISG believes are based on sound evidence.