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The arrival of fall also means influenza is once again in the spotlight. With it comes a vaccination campaign targeting one of the most vulnerable groups: the youngest members of the family. Chiron Salud Campo Hospital in Gibraltar has introduced intranasal flu vaccination, which delivers the vaccine through the nose and prevents children from suffering a traditional puncture.
José Luis Díaz, head of the pediatric service at Palmones Hospital, emphasizes the advantages of the intranasal influenza vaccine. “This method of vaccination is as safe and effective as the traditional injection, but by giving it an intranasal injection we avoid any discomfort when boys and girls come in for consultation,” We improve compliance with flu vaccinations and coverage. “The doctor added.
But how does the flu spread? “Given that most children will be infected with this virus every year, it is important for parents to understand how the virus is spread and why the vaccine is a very important measure for them and their environment.” To this end, Dr. Diaz pointed to a number of factors , “These are places where children interact closely, such as daycares and schools, which can promote the spread of influenza viruses when infected children sneeze, cough or talk;” and even when they share toys, utensils, plates, cutlery or school supplies and other items. In these situations, it is crucial to regularly clean shared objects in the school environment and teach children the importance of hand washing. “
Another aspect that Dr. José Luis Díaz emphasizes is the recognition that vaccination is the main shield of protection, “because with influenza it is the basic preventive measure. Every year a vaccine is developed based on the most common strains of the virus. new vaccine. “The antibodies produced by this vaccine act as defenders against pathogens, preparing the body to effectively fight them. “
In turn, the head of the pediatric service at Campo Gibraltar Hospital stressed the importance of understanding that vaccination is “more than a simple immunization measure”. The explanation is simple, because “the flu vaccine not only protects the vaccinated child, it also minimizes the chance of the virus spreading to those around them, such as grandparents and other vulnerable groups.”.