As the monsoon season sweeps across India, Dr. Rashna Dass Hazarika, Senior Consultant Paediatrician at RIGPA Children’s Clinic, is raising concerns over the heightened risk of flu among children due to erratic weather patterns. The fluctuating humidity and temperature during this season have created ideal conditions for flu viruses to spread, exacerbating the vulnerability of children.
Dr. Hazarika highlights that drought-like conditions, which increase air pollution, weaken children’s immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections. Additionally, areas prone to waterlogging foster mold growth, further compromising lung health. The situation is worsened by crowding in homes during heavy rainfall, potentially leading to widespread flu outbreaks.
The Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP) advises annual flu vaccinations for children aged 6 months to 5 years to prevent severe complications, such as pneumonia. Dr. Hazarika emphasizes, “Children under 5 have developing immunity and are at high risk for severe flu complications. The 4-in-1 annual flu vaccine can prevent infections or reduce severity.”
