Influenza Vaccine for Babies
Vaccine schedule
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Once a year
The disease
The influenza virus attacks the respiratory system and is highly contagious. It spreads through coughing, sneezing, or contact with nasal secretions or phlegm. Symptoms include a fever of over 38 degrees Celsius, throat ache, headache, runny nose, coughing, muscle pain, weakness, fatigue, and reduced appetite. The primary complication is pneumonia, often leading to hospitalization and, in severe cases, mortality. Every year, approximately 20% to 30% of children contract the influenza virus, serving as the primary source of transmission within the general population.
The vaccine
The influenza vaccine is safe and effective, providing protection throughout a single winter. Every fall, a vaccine is produced against four strains of influenza viruses anticipated to be the most prevalent in the next year. The recommendation to get vaccinated is particularly essential for individuals who are at high risk for serious complications from influenza, especially infants and young children between six months and five years old.
There are two types of influenza vaccines
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Inactivated influenza vaccine
Administered to individuals aged six months and older.
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Live attenuated vaccine
This vaccine is typically administered to individuals aged two to 49 years old. It is not recommended for people with asthma, certain immunodeficiency conditions or pregnant women.
Vaccination schedule: every fall each year, the vaccine is administered at the HMOs and to second, third, and fourth-grade children in schools. It is recommended to get vaccinated in September and October, to be prepared for the winter.
Children up to nine years old who have not received the vaccine before should receive two doses, with a 4-week interval between the first and the second dose. For all subsequent years, only one dose is required.
| Type of vaccine | Vaccine composition | Vaccine administration |
| Inactivated | Inactivated viruses | Until the age of 3 - by injection to the thigh; from the age of 3 - by injection to the arm |
| Live attenuated | Live attenuated viruses that cannot multiply at normal internal body temperature | Nasal spray |
Inactivated influenza vaccine: potential side effects and how to relieve them
A small portion of those who receive the influenza vaccine may develop side effects after getting it. However, these side effects are usually mild and go away on their own within a day or two:
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Redness, pain and swelling at the injection site -
Fever -
General discomfort -
Hoarseness, coughing, eye irritation and itchiness
- Redness and pain at the injection site and local swelling or in the entire limb: you can apply a clean cloth soaked in lukewarm water to the injection site and avoid massaging the area.
- Fever: you can administer an analgesic to help relieve pain and reduce fever.
- General discomfort: lack of appetite, nausea, vomiting, consistent crying, diarrhea, restlessness, drowsiness.
- Hoarseness, coughing, eye irritation and itchiness: these may persist for a day or two after vaccination.
Live attenuated vaccine: potential side effects and ways to relieve them
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Runny nose, nasal congestion, headaches, throat ache, coughing, and nasal bleeding
Runny nose, nasal congestion, headaches, throat ache, coughing, and nasal bleeding: you can administer an analgesic to help relieve pain and reduce fever.
When should you seek medical attention at an HMO or emergency medical center
- If your child appears apathetic.
- If fever lasts beyond 24-48 hours.
- If there are changes in appetite and eating patterns beyond 24-48 hours.
- If any other phenomenon causes concern.