Flu Vaccine Considerations for Children with Chronic Kidney Disease

Q: Flu Vaccine Considerations for Children with Chronic Kidney Disease

Hello： If there is no allergy to egg white, the influenza vaccine should be administered. <br>Sincerely, Dr. <br>Pei-Hsin Chang, Pediatrics.

Chronic Kidney Disease and Influenza Vaccine

Dear Dr.
Chang,
Hello.
My child has been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (glomerulonephritis) for about three years now.
We have been monitoring blood and proteinuria every three months, and the results have been relatively normal.
However, during the test in mid-October, the blood in the urine was around 10-20 red blood cells, which, while still considered normal, is an increase from the previous 0-10 red blood cells.
The nephrologist advised that there is no need for concern and that we should continue monitoring.
Given the current prevalence of avian influenza, I would like to take my child to receive the flu vaccine.
Is this appropriate? Could there be any potential side effects?
Thank you for taking the time to address my concerns!
Sincerely,
A concerned mother

Xinji de muqin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/10/26

Dr. Zhang Peixin reply Pediatrics

Hello: If there is no allergy to egg white, the influenza vaccine should be administered.
Sincerely, Dr.
Pei-Hsin Chang, Pediatrics.

Reply Date: 2005/10/26

More Info

When considering the flu vaccine for children with chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly those diagnosed with conditions such as glomerulonephritis, it is essential to weigh the benefits against any potential risks. The flu vaccine is generally recommended for children, especially those with underlying health conditions, as they are at a higher risk for complications from influenza.

In your case, your child has been monitored for CKD for approximately three years, with regular assessments of hematuria (blood in urine) and proteinuria (protein in urine). The recent increase in hematuria from 0-10 to 10-20 red blood cells per high power field, while still within a normal range, indicates that close monitoring is essential. However, the nephrologist has advised that there is no immediate cause for concern, which is reassuring.

The flu vaccine is particularly important during flu season, especially given the current prevalence of avian influenza. Children with CKD can experience more severe illness if they contract the flu, making vaccination a critical preventive measure. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children with chronic health conditions receive the flu vaccine annually.
Regarding your concern about potential side effects or complications from the vaccine, it is important to note that the flu vaccine is considered safe for children with CKD, provided they do not have a history of severe allergic reactions to components of the vaccine, such as egg protein. If your child has no known allergies to egg products, they should be able to receive the vaccine without significant risk.
In some cases, children with CKD may have a slightly altered immune response, which could affect the vaccine's efficacy. However, the benefits of vaccination in preventing influenza and its complications generally outweigh the risks. The vaccine can help protect your child from severe illness, hospitalization, and other complications associated with the flu.

It is also worth mentioning that while some parents may worry about the potential for vaccines to cause kidney-related issues, extensive research has shown that vaccines, including the flu vaccine, do not adversely affect kidney function in children with CKD. The immune response generated by the vaccine is crucial for protecting against infections, which can be particularly harmful to children with compromised kidney function.

In conclusion, based on the current medical guidelines and the information provided, it is advisable for your child to receive the flu vaccine. It is always best to discuss any specific concerns with your child's nephrologist or pediatrician, who can provide personalized recommendations based on your child's health status. Vaccination is a proactive step in safeguarding your child's health, especially during flu season.

Similar Q&A

Is It Safe to Get a Flu Vaccine for Kids in Summer?

Hello Doctor, thank you for your previous response. You mentioned that boosting immunity is important and that vaccination is crucial. It is currently summer, and children can still catch colds from sweating and being exposed to the wind. However, the pediatrician advised me to w...

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics
Hello, (1) The influenza vaccine administered starting in September each year is designed to target the strains of influenza that are expected to circulate during the upcoming winter. If there is still influenza vaccine available in the summer, it is likely leftover from the pr...

Assessing Vaccine Suitability for Patients with Low Blood Pressure and Allergies

I often feel dizzy due to low blood pressure, and sometimes I experience palpitations. Occasionally, the edges of my lips turn cyanotic at night, and I frequently catch colds, which can lead to nosebleeds. Additionally, I have a history of allergies and gastroesophageal reflux. I...

Dr. Liao Zhongxin reply Internal Medicine
1. For recommendations and guidelines on vaccination for immunocompromised patients, please refer to the attachment: https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Category/ListPage/g9rqm1jhIt65b8sr5Vap8w2. The classification of immunocompromised individuals is as follows: 1. Primary immunodeficienc...

Preventing Meningitis and Vaccination Guidelines for Young Children

Hello Dr. Zhao, I have a couple of questions: 1. Recently, enterovirus and meningitis are on the rise. Are there any preventive vaccines available? 2. My child is currently about one year old. Should he/she receive the pneumonia vaccine and the hepatitis A vaccine? Thank y...

Dr. Zhao Yongkang reply Pediatrics
1. There is currently no routine vaccination for these vaccines in the country. 2. If the home environment is clean and the water source is not an issue, generally there is no need to receive these two vaccines.

Can Children with Allergies Receive the Flu Vaccine?

Hello, doctor! My 2-year-old child has been taking medication for nasal and bronchial allergies recently. Is it safe to administer the flu vaccine?

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics
Dear Mom, Hello! The contraindications for the influenza vaccine include: allergy to egg protein, fever, or other serious illnesses. Allergy medications do not affect the administration of the influenza vaccine. The physician will reassess before the vaccination. Wishing you ...