Recommendations for prevention and control of influenza in children, 2012-2013

Pediatrics. 2012 Oct;130(4):780-92. doi: 10.1542/peds.2012-2308. Epub 2012 Sep 10.

Abstract

The purpose of this statement is to update recommendations for routine use of trivalent seasonal influenza vaccine and antiviral medications for the prevention and treatment of influenza in children. The key points for the upcoming 2012-2013 season are: (1) this year's trivalent influenza vaccine contains A/California/7/2009 (H1N1)-like antigen (derived from influenza A [H1N1] pdm09 [pH1N1] virus); A/Victoria/361/2011 (H3N2)-like antigen; and B/Wisconsin/1/2010-like antigen (the influenza A [H3N2] and B antigens differ from those contained in the 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 seasonal vaccines); (2) annual universal influenza immunization is indicated; and (3) an updated dosing algorithm for administration of influenza vaccine to children 6 months through 8 years of age has been created. Pediatricians, nurses, and all health care personnel should promote influenza vaccine use and infection control measures. In addition, pediatricians should promptly identify influenza infections to enable rapid treatment, when indicated, to reduce morbidity and mortality.

Publication types

  • Practice Guideline

MeSH terms

  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Contraindications
  • Humans
  • Immunization Schedule
  • Infant
  • Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype / immunology*
  • Influenza A Virus, H3N2 Subtype / immunology*
  • Influenza B virus / immunology*
  • Influenza Vaccines* / administration & dosage
  • Influenza, Human / prevention & control*
  • Mass Vaccination* / methods
  • Mass Vaccination* / organization & administration
  • Public Health Surveillance
  • United States
  • Vaccines, Attenuated / administration & dosage

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Influenza Vaccines
  • Vaccines, Attenuated