Table 2 Summary of CEVAG guidance statement on recommendations for influenza vaccination of all children
Consideration | CEVAG recommendation |
|---|---|
Primary target group for influenza vaccination | Children |
Age of vaccination | From 6 months of age, with special attention to the 6-60 month age group |
Method of vaccine delivery | To fit within the existing vaccination schedule in the first and second year of life |
Vaccination routine | Annual vaccination. For the first year of vaccination, all children should receive two doses with minimum interval of 4 weeks according to the manufacturer's recommendations. In the second year, children should receive a single dose of seasonal vaccine. |
For children aged between 6 and 35 months 0.25 mL doses are administered, equivalent to half the adult dose | |
Commonly reported reactions following vaccination | Mild soreness, redness, and swelling at injection site, fever, and aches. These symptoms usually begin soon after the injection, and last 1-2 days |
Safety concerns | No safety concerns have been identified with the use of trivalent inactivated influenza vaccines with the exception that individuals with allergy to egg products should avoid immunisation |