Recommendations for Prevention and Control of Influenza in Children, 2011–2012

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 2011–2012 season are that (1) the influenza vaccine composition for the 2011–2012 season is unchanged from the 2010–2011 season, (2) annual universal influenza immunization is indicated, (3) a simplified dosing algorithm for administration of influenza vaccine to children 6 months through 8 years of age has been created, (4) most children presumed to have egg allergy can safely receive influenza vaccine in the office without need for an allergy consultation, and (5) an intradermal trivalent inactivated influenza vaccine has been licensed for the 2011–2012 season for use in people 18 through 64 years of age. Pediatricians, nurses, and all health care personnel have leadership roles in the prevention of influenza through vaccine use and public education. In addition, pediatricians should promptly identify influenza infections to enable rapid treatment, when indicated, to reduce childhood morbidity and mortality.