Essential Guide to Flu Vaccines and Nutritional Needs for Infants

About the influenza vaccine?

Hello Dr.
Lin,
(1) Thank you for your previous response.
However, my daughter has recently had a decreased appetite.
You mentioned that we could focus on complementary foods rather than solely on milk, but she is eating very little of those as well and seems to not enjoy them.
Because of this, I am considering adding some nutritional supplements (calcium powder, bifidobacteria) to her milk to see if it can help supplement her nutrition, especially since she is currently teething and I want to ensure she is not lacking in calcium for her development.
Is this approach feasible? Could it potentially burden her system? (This is just a temporary measure; once the teething phase is over or her appetite improves, I will consider discontinuing these supplements.)
(2) Additionally, I recently saw a news report stating that the calcium content in 70 bowls of porridge made with bone broth is equivalent to that in one serving of milk.
This is why I prefer to have my baby drink more milk than eat porridge at this time.
What is your opinion on this?
(3) Furthermore, I received your call a few days ago, informing us that we can take our baby for the flu vaccine.
Is this vaccine mandatory? Is it possible to skip it? I am also curious about any potential side effects from the vaccine.
(By the way, I have been avoiding contact with the baby or wearing a mask since I caught a cold recently.)
Thank you for taking the time to respond.

Xiao Fen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/09/29

Dr. Lin Huizhen reply Pediatrics

Dear Xiaofen,
This is Dr.
Lin Huizhen from the Pediatrics Department of Tainan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.
(1) As long as the additives in regular milk are within appropriate limits, they do not pose a significant burden on children.
If the intake of milk exceeds 600cc, the calcium content is sufficient, and generally, there is no need for additional supplementation.
(2) While milk is rich in calcium, it is also important for growing children to be trained to consume semi-solid and solid foods.
The nutritional components and proportions required for older children differ from those needed during infancy, so it is essential to gradually transition children to a diet similar to that of adults.
(3) Side effects of the influenza vaccine: A small number of children may experience localized pain, redness, or fever, but the incidence is lower in children compared to adults.
However, if there is a significant allergy to egg whites or acute fever, vaccination is not recommended.
Wishing you good health and all the best.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Lin Huizhen
Tainan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan

Reply Date: 2005/09/29

More Info

When it comes to the health and nutrition of infants, especially regarding appetite issues and vaccinations, there are several important considerations to keep in mind.
1. Nutritional Needs and Supplementation: It's not uncommon for infants to experience fluctuations in appetite, particularly during developmental milestones such as teething. If your daughter is not consuming enough solid foods or milk, adding nutritional supplements like calcium powder or probiotics to her milk can be a temporary solution. Generally, if the total milk intake exceeds 600cc per day, the calcium needs of a growing child are typically met without the need for additional supplementation. However, it’s crucial to ensure that any added supplements are appropriate for her age and that they do not exceed recommended dosages. Over-supplementation can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or other health issues. It’s advisable to consult with a pediatrician before making any significant changes to her diet or introducing new supplements.

2. Calcium Sources: The claim that a large bowl of bone broth porridge contains calcium equivalent to a serving of milk is interesting but should be approached with caution. While bone broth can be a good source of minerals, the bioavailability of calcium from such sources can vary. Milk is a well-known source of calcium that is easily absorbed by the body, making it a reliable choice for ensuring adequate calcium intake in children. Encouraging a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods, including dairy, vegetables, and other calcium-rich foods, is essential for your child's overall development.

3. Flu Vaccination: Regarding the flu vaccine, it is highly recommended for children, especially those over six months old. The flu can lead to serious complications in young children, and vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent influenza and its associated risks. While some children may experience mild side effects from the vaccine, such as soreness at the injection site or a low-grade fever, these are generally short-lived and much less severe than the potential consequences of contracting the flu. If your child has a history of severe allergic reactions, particularly to egg proteins (as some flu vaccines are produced using egg-based technology), or if she is currently experiencing acute illness, it is best to consult with your pediatrician to determine the appropriateness of vaccination at this time.

In summary, while it’s understandable to be concerned about your child’s nutrition and health, it’s important to approach these issues with a balanced perspective. Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance tailored to your daughter’s specific needs. Regular check-ups and open communication with your pediatrician will help ensure that your child receives the best care possible during these formative years.

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