November 2008

A study (Pediatrics. 2008 Nov;122(5):911-9) showed that even in an influenza season where there is not an optimal match between circulating strains of influenza and the strains contained in the influenza vaccine, the vaccine is likely to significantly protect young children, ages 6 to 59 months, against influenza. There was a 57-percent reduction in influenza-related medical visits in the children who received all recommended doses of the influenza vaccine compared to unvaccinated children in one of the two influenza seasons studied (2004-2005). Children 6 months up to 9 years of age need to have two vaccine doses if they are getting a flu vaccine for the first time. The study found no protection against flu for children who needed two vaccine doses and only received one.  

Content Updated (Tuesday, 6th January 2009)