By: Urolova Nigina O’tkir
Annotation
This article analyzes the effectiveness of influenza vaccination among children and its preventive and epidemiological significance. Based on modern studies, it discusses the safety of vaccination, the formation of an immune response, and its role in preventing severe disease progression.
Keywords:
Influenza, children, vaccination, immunization, vaccine effectiveness, prevention
Introduction
Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses of types A, B, and C, and it is especially widespread among children. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), influenza causes 3–5 million severe cases and about 290,000–650,000 deaths worldwide every year. Children belong to a high-risk group because their immune system is not yet fully developed. Therefore, influenza vaccination is recognized as an important preventive measure.
Main Part
Types of influenza vaccines
Influenza vaccines are mainly divided into two types: inactivated influenza vaccines (IIV) and live attenuated influenza vaccines (LAIV). In children, inactivated vaccines are mostly used. LAIV is recommended for healthy children over two years old.
Effectiveness of vaccination
Studies show that influenza vaccination prevents illness in 60–70% of cases among children. The incidence of influenza is significantly lower in vaccinated children compared to unvaccinated ones. Moreover, vaccination leads to:
reduced severity of the disease,
lower incidence of complications such as pneumonia and otitis,
up to 50% lower hospitalization rates.
Formation of the immune response
Primary vaccination in children is done with two doses. An immune response usually develops within 10–14 days. Revaccination is carried out annually because the influenza virus mutates rapidly.
Safety and side effects
The vaccine is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects include:
pain and redness at the injection site,
mild fever or fatigue,
rare allergic reactions.
Influenza vaccination practice in Uzbekistan
In Uzbekistan, influenza vaccination is recommended by the Ministry of Health but is not included in the list of mandatory vaccinations. Therefore, annual vaccination coverage remains low. It is necessary to strengthen activities to include the influenza vaccine in preventive immunization programs.
Conclusion
Influenza vaccination is a reliable and safe method to prevent influenza among children. It reduces not only the incidence but also the burden on the healthcare system. Children at high risk, especially those under five years old, must be vaccinated. Strengthening vaccination policies and raising public awareness are key factors in combating influenza.
Alfraganus University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of General Medicine, 2nd-year student Urolova Nigina daughter of O’tkir
Similar Posts by Mt Kenya Times:
- Mt Kenya Times ePAPER May 20, 2026
- A Review Of The Last White Man In Contemporary Paradigm
- Adan Mohammed named new KRA Commissioner General
- Kenya grinds to a halt as opposition rallies behind fuel protests
- Choromai urges farmers to embrace planting season as he ramps up development message in Kieni constituency
Norman Mwale