Flu vaccination rates ‘concerningly’ low among US kids, health officials warn
According to the latest data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only around one-third of children have been vaccinated against the flu. As of November 30, only 37% of kids had received flu shots, a decrease from 43% at the same time last year. Among adults, 39% had received flu vaccinations, which remained consistent with the previous year.
Flu vaccination coverage had been increasing before the COVID-19 pandemic, but numbers dropped during that time and have not returned to pre-pandemic levels. The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older gets a flu vaccine each year, with only rare exceptions. It is especially important for high-risk groups such as adults 65 and older, children under 2, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Individuals with heart disease, lung disease, asthma, neurologic conditions, liver disease, blood disorders, kidney conditions, and metabolic disorders are also considered high-risk and should receive the flu vaccine. Dr. Jacob Glanville, CEO of Centivax, expressed concern over the decreasing vaccination rates and emphasized the importance of vaccines in improving human health and reducing the severity of strains.
Glanville called for government authorities to support sound vaccine policies, especially for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly. For children who may have needle phobias, the FluMist nasal spray is an alternative option for flu vaccination for ages 2 and older. In addition to vaccinations, it is important to stock the medicine cabinet with essential items like vitamins C, D3, and zinc to enhance immune response and overall function.
Ensuring that individuals are protected against the flu is crucial for public health, and efforts should be made to increase vaccination rates, especially in high-risk populations. By following the CDC’s recommendations and incorporating immune-boosting supplements into daily routines, individuals can help protect themselves and others from the flu. For more health articles and tips, visit www.foxnews.com/health.
