I have been asked this question by several clients and fellow Mums recently as the autumn/winter NHS childhood vaccination programme begins. The nasal spray flu vaccine is being rolled out initially for all children aged two, three and four and children in years one and two. In some areas of the UK the vaccine will also be available for all Primary school age children.
This particular vaccine is interesting especially given the research around it. The government supports this vaccination programme according to the advise of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation and intends to implement the programme to eventually vaccinate all children between 2 and 16.
Children and the elderly are at greatest risk from influenza pandemics and data in 2010 suggests there were 70 child deaths related to flu. Influenza symptoms include fever, chills, aching muscles, headache, stuffy nose, dry cough and sore throat. Some children can develop complications and those most susceptible are those who already have a health condition such as asthma or diabetes.
It is worth noting that we are all different and respond to things in different ways and as parents we can appreciate whether or not our child has a healthy immune system or is battling an infection particularly when they are tired or lack energy. Children tend to spread germs quickly especially within classrooms and once the winter bugs start multiplying absenteeism from school can peak.
There are NHS recommendations for children who shouldn’t have the vaccine including those with a weakened immune system, severe egg allergy and severe asthma. The research around this vaccine being suitable for all is controversial. The British Medical Journal has published papers, which question the quality of evidence for the benefits of the influenza vaccine. A Cochrane Review in 2007 evaluated 274 influenza vaccine studies and showed that, “reliable evidence on influenza vaccines is thin but there is evidence of widespread manipulation of conclusions and spurious notoriety of the studies” with some studies being funded by large pharmaceutical companies. In the 2012 Cochrane Review evaluating 75 studies it suggests vaccines may be effective but a difference was noted in “efficacy and effectiveness” across the studies drawing the conclusion that, “If immunisation in children is to be recommended as a public health policy, large-scale studies assessing important outcomes, and directly comparing vaccine types are urgently required.” You may also be interested to read the comments made by the lead author of the review, Tom Jefferson, to The Guardian. These are all factors, which challenge us as parents to make an informed decision.
Please do not base your decision on this article alone. Do your own research. Flu can be very dangerous to children even ones with no pre existing conditions. Many otherwise healthy children are admitted to hospital with complications arising from flu.
Whether you decide to vaccinate your child or not focus on boosting their immunity this Autumn/Winter. Follow my advice ‘Boost their Immunity for Winter’ and for a more personalized discussion about your child’s health and consider booking an appointment at The Food Teacher Clinic.
