Maharashtra: Every child should get flu shot before monsoon, say experts

The state Covid taskforce and the newly constituted paediatric taskforce have jointly suggested immunising every child with the influenza vaccine ahead of monsoon.

At a virtual meeting held on Sunday, doctors from both expert groups told chief minister Uddhav Thackeray that administering the influenza vaccine would help curb the incidence of this disease, which in turn will help decongest hospitals and prevent unnecessary testing since the signs of seasonal flu can mimic Covid-19.

Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP) recommends the influenza vaccine for children below the age of five. The vaccine, that contains two subtypes of influenza A and two lineages of influenza B, is widely available in the private market, but it is not a part of the vaccines given under the national immunisation programme. It costs Rs 1,500-Rs 2,000 for a single shot.

Dr Sanjay Oak, chairman of the state Covid taskforce, told the CM, “We are of the opinion that the influenza vaccine should be advised proactively. Since it’s expensive, it is mostly the middle class and upper class that can afford it. At the state level, we may think of reducing the cost or giving it to every child at least in the next six months.” Dr Suhas Prabhu, who heads the paediatric taskforce, said flu patients may present Covid-like symptoms. “If they all start coming to hospitals and if RT-PCR has to be done for all, there will be added expenses and crowding in hospitals,” he said. He told the CM at least for this year, the state may make an exception and give the vaccine to all children.

CM Thackeray said the state will certainly consider the suggestion, “However, we need more clarity on whether asymptomatic Covid positive child can take the vaccine. Vaccination is not at all an issue but how, when and whom to vaccinate should be clear to avoid further complications,” said Thackeray.

Meanwhile, members from both taskforces said children who may have missed out on their routine immunisation doses due to a Covid infection should complete their schedule. “It is safe for a child to get BCG, rubella or any vaccine that they may have missed out on if four weeks have passed since the onset of Covid symptoms,” said Dr Vijay Yewale, also a member of the paediatric taskforce.