The upcoming flu season has sparked anxiety, especially among parents like Christine Wear, whose 4-year-old son Beckett contracted an inflammatory brain disease called acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE) after getting the flu. This rare condition, caused by the flu virus attacking the nervous system, can lead to severe symptoms such as confusion, difficulty walking, and hallucinations.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports 109 children diagnosed with influenza-associated encephalopathy (IAE), a condition that affects the nervous system and can be fatal. This is an increase from previous years, and experts warn that flu is “dangerous for children, period.”
While vaccination rates are falling, doctors emphasize that getting vaccinated against the flu is crucial in preventing severe complications and death. Last year, 280 pediatric flu deaths were reported, with only 90% of those who died having received their annual flu shot.
The CDC found that 84% of kids with IAE whose vaccination status was known weren’t vaccinated. Experts recommend vaccination for all children to prevent this rare but deadly complication. With access issues and staffing shortages affecting many practices, getting vaccinated is more important than ever.
As Beckett’s mom, Christine Wear, puts it, “Vaccination is a simple and easy way to protect my son.” The CDC urges everyone 6 months and older to get a flu shot every year to prevent the risk of rare brain inflammations like ANE.
Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/flu-vaccines-children-complication-cdc-deaths-rcna233436