AFP | Jerusalem
Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com
Bahrain is experiencing colder nights and lower daytime temperatures, and the number of cases of viral fever and flu-like symptoms has increased significantly among children.
Amid growing concerns, Saudi medical experts are calling on parents to take proactive measures to protect their children’s health during the winter season. According to leading pediatricians, the most effective way to prevent the flu is to give both children and adults an annual flu vaccine.
It is recommended that everyone 6 months of age and older get an annual influenza vaccine. Dr. Chandra Mouli Godada, a pediatric specialist at Bahrain Specialist Hospital, explains: “Influenza viruses constantly change, so influenza vaccines need to be updated frequently.
These updates can help protect you from the specific influenza viruses that research shows are most likely to cause illness this upcoming flu season. Influenza, commonly known as influenza, is caused by different strains of the influenza virus and occurs primarily during the winter months.
Each year, infections are caused by slightly different strains of the virus, so annual influenza vaccination is essential to maintain immunity against evolving variants. Highlighting the safety and effectiveness of the influenza vaccine, Dr. Chandra said, “Studies that match vaccine viruses to circulating viruses show that influenza vaccination reduces the risk of contracting influenza by approximately 40 to 60 percent. ” states.
the study
Additionally, recent studies have demonstrated that the influenza vaccine can reduce the risk of severe and life-threatening influenza in children by up to 75%. In addition to vaccination, Dr. Chandra emphasizes the adoption of preventive measures to minimize transmission of the influenza virus.
These measures include avoiding close contact with sick people, covering coughs and sneezes, washing your hands frequently with soap and water, avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, and preventing influenza. This includes diligently cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and items that may harbor the virus.
Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be given to children over the age of 2 to relieve flu symptoms, especially for fever, headache, and muscle or body aches. In addition, simple home remedies such as saline or salt water nasal sprays can provide relief.
antiviral drugs
If someone already has the flu, Dr. Chandra emphasizes the potential benefits of antiviral medications. “These prescription drugs are specifically designed to treat influenza illness, which is caused solely by the influenza virus. Ideally, antiviral drug treatment should be started within two days of the onset of symptoms, but “Even if treatment is started more than two days after onset of illness, children can still benefit,” he added.
Parents and caregivers must prioritize their children’s health as changing weather conditions increase the number of viral fever and influenza cases among children.