Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Doctors Dismissed Her Repeated Concerns Until She Switched Gynecologists - Turns Out It Was Cancer

Receiving a <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/cancer">cancer</a> diagnosis changes a person’s life in many ways. The impending sense of doom, the feeling of an uncertain future as well as the constant stress about how this disease is affecting your loved ones are just a few of the things they experience. It may be fiction to us, but it is someone else’s reality.

Avi Grant's life took an unexpected turn on August 19, 2021, when she received a diagnosis of stage III <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/cervical-cancer">cervical cancer</a>. At the time, she was a newlywed, thriving in her career, and looking forward to starting a family.

But that isn’t all. There was a difficult diagnosis wait for her, what's worse is that it could have gone unnoticed if it wasn’t for not giving up. 

Avi's health journey began in September 2019 after she had a very hard miscarriage. Besides worrying about having children, Avi just felt like something wasn't right with her body. She felt like her doctors weren't giving her enough clear answers, even though she kept asking questions. So, she decided to switch to a new women's doctor. 

Her new doctor quickly got to work, doing many tests. Soon, they found what others had missed: cervical cancer. Avi used an app to check her medical records, so she actually saw the cancer diagnosis online before her doctor even called her. She recalled seeing the words "squamous cell carcinoma" and knew right away it meant cancer. Although she was shocked and was grasping the reality of her diagnosis, she did not waste any time and jumped right away into her treatment. She wanted to know what she needed to do next to fight this.

<h2>What is Squamous-Cell Carcinoma? </h2>

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cervix, which is the lower part of the womb (uterus) in women. Most cervical cancers are a type called squamous-cell carcinoma. These cancers are often caused by certain types of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), especially types 16 and 18.

According to StatPearl it is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide, coming after breast, lung, and bowel cancer. 

Cervical cancer is actually easy to prevent. This is thanks to a test called the Pap smear. This test can find abnormal cells that could turn into cancer before they become a serious problem. If caught early, these bad cells can be removed. However, in many poorer countries, this cancer is still very common. This is because they don't have widespread screening programs like the Pap smear. 

Avi had a very strong treatment plan. This included many medical procedures, then chemotherapy and two types of radiation – one from outside her body and one from inside called brachytherapy. The brachytherapy was especially hard for her. It caused her a lot of physical pain and emotional stress because of how it's done and its side effects. 

Brachytherapy works by putting a device with radiation right inside the body, very close to the cancer. 

This helps target the cancer cells directly while trying to keep healthy cells safe. For Avi, this meant a large device with radiation was put into her vagina, and she had to stay completely still while it was in place. She wants other women to know exactly what to expect with this treatment. She believes that if women understood the process and saw the equipment beforehand, it could help them feel less scared and worried. Even with all the pain and stress, Avi kept going with amazing strength. 

<h2>Cancer's Impact on Feelings and Mind </h2>

Avi's fight against cancer wasn't just about her body; it also deeply affected her mind and feelings. After her treatment finished, she found herself struggling with depression and anxiety. These were feelings she hadn't expected or known much about. 

She said, "I didn’t feel like myself." Even her husband noticed, asking if she wanted to go out, but she just wanted to stay home. That's when she realized something was wrong. She got professional help and learned how important it is to take care of your mental health. She feels this part is often forgotten during and after cancer treatment. She wants people to talk more about mental health, reminding everyone that "It’s OK not to be OK.” 

<h2>Finding Strength in Others and Speaking Out </h2>

Throughout everything, Avi refused to let cancer make her feel negative. She looked for help and found comfort in groups like the American Cancer Society (ACS). Then, she started to speak out herself, sharing her powerful story in news interviews and at community events. 

The ACS really helped her recovery. They connected her with useful resources and gave her chances to share her story and raise awareness, like at local Relay For Life events. She felt how powerful it was to share her experience and connect with other people. This also helped her find support groups and tools for life during and after treatment, which she feels is often ignored. She said, "Nobody talks about what happens after cancer. It’s like, ‘Congratulations, you did amazing. Now go live life.’ But I had to figure out how to live again." 

Avi wisely puts it, "Cancer changes you. Everyone expects you to go back to the way you were, back to normal, but it isn’t like that. I’ve changed. Cancer changed me.” 

Health Conditions A-Z

health

cancer

human papillomavirus

Cancer survivor stories

Cervical Cancer

Cervical Cancer Diagnosis

squamous cell carcinoma

Loving Perfection and Cleanliness Does Not Mean You Have OCD: Here Is What The Disorder Actually Means

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Receiving a cancer diagnosis changes a person’s life in many ways. The impending sense of doom, the feeling of an uncertain future as well as the constant stress about how this disease is affecting your loved ones are just a few of the things they experience. It may be fiction to us, but it is someone else’s reality. Avi Grant's life took an unexpected turn on August 19, 2021, when she received a diagnosis of stage III cervical cancer. At the time, she was a newlywed, thriving in her career, and looking forward to starting a family. But that isn’t all. There was a difficult diagnosis wait for her, what's worse is that it could have gone unnoticed if it wasn’t for not giving up. Search for Answers Avi's health journey began in September 2019 after she had a very hard miscarriage. Besides worrying about having children, Avi just felt like something wasn't right with her body. She felt like her doctors weren't giving her enough clear answers, even though she kept asking questions. So, she decided to switch to a new women's doctor. Her new doctor quickly got to work, doing many tests. Soon, they found what others had missed: cervical cancer. Avi used an app to check her medical records, so she actually saw the cancer diagnosis online before her doctor even called her. She recalled seeing the words "squamous cell carcinoma" and knew right away it meant cancer. Although she was shocked and was grasping the reality of her diagnosis, she did not waste any time and jumped right away into her treatment. She wanted to know what she needed to do next to fight this. What is Squamous-Cell Carcinoma? Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cervix, which is the lower part of the womb (uterus) in women. Most cervical cancers are a type called squamous-cell carcinoma. These cancers are often caused by certain types of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), especially types 16 and 18. According to StatPearl it is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide, coming after breast, lung, and bowel cancer. Can It Be Prevented? Cervical cancer is actually easy to prevent. This is thanks to a test called the Pap smear. This test can find abnormal cells that could turn into cancer before they become a serious problem. If caught early, these bad cells can be removed. However, in many poorer countries, this cancer is still very common. This is because they don't have widespread screening programs like the Pap smear. Tough Treatments Avi had a very strong treatment plan. This included many medical procedures, then chemotherapy and two types of radiation – one from outside her body and one from inside called brachytherapy. The brachytherapy was especially hard for her. It caused her a lot of physical pain and emotional stress because of how it's done and its side effects. Brachytherapy works by putting a device with radiation right inside the body, very close to the cancer. This helps target the cancer cells directly while trying to keep healthy cells safe. For Avi, this meant a large device with radiation was put into her vagina, and she had to stay completely still while it was in place. She wants other women to know exactly what to expect with this treatment. She believes that if women understood the process and saw the equipment beforehand, it could help them feel less scared and worried. Even with all the pain and stress, Avi kept going with amazing strength. Cancer's Impact on Feelings and Mind Avi's fight against cancer wasn't just about her body; it also deeply affected her mind and feelings. After her treatment finished, she found herself struggling with depression and anxiety. These were feelings she hadn't expected or known much about. She said, "I didn’t feel like myself." Even her husband noticed, asking if she wanted to go out, but she just wanted to stay home. That's when she realized something was wrong. She got professional help and learned how important it is to take care of your mental health. She feels this part is often forgotten during and after cancer treatment. She wants people to talk more about mental health, reminding everyone that "It’s OK not to be OK.” Finding Strength in Others and Speaking Out Throughout everything, Avi refused to let cancer make her feel negative. She looked for help and found comfort in groups like the American Cancer Society (ACS). Then, she started to speak out herself, sharing her powerful story in news interviews and at community events. The ACS really helped her recovery. They connected her with useful resources and gave her chances to share her story and raise awareness, like at local Relay For Life events. She felt how powerful it was to share her experience and connect with other people. This also helped her find support groups and tools for life during and after treatment, which she feels is often ignored. She said, "Nobody talks about what happens after cancer. It’s like, ‘Congratulations, you did amazing. Now go live life.’ But I had to figure out how to live again." Avi wisely puts it, "Cancer changes you. Everyone expects you to go back to the way you were, back to normal, but it isn’t like that. I’ve changed. Cancer changed me.” 

doctors dismissed her repeated concerns until she switched gynecologists - turns out it was cancer

Supriya Ramesh

Credits: Canva

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If you have ever colour-coded your wardrobe, wiped the kitchen slabs repeatedly just because a speck of dust exists, or straightened a slightly off-centre painting on the wall, someone has probably laughed and said, I am so OCD too. But the thing is that you are probably not. And neither are they.

Somewhere along the way, we all misunderstood Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a serious mental health condition, and casually said it. OCD has become shorthand for being neat, organised, or a lover of clean aesthetics. But as mental health professionals and those who actually live with OCD will tell you, that stereotype could not be further from the truth.

OCD is a clinically diagnosed anxiety disorder. It is not just about being extra clean or a control freak. It involves a cycle of obsessions, which are intrusive, unwanted thoughts and compulsions, which are repetitive behaviours or mental acts done to try to neutralise those thoughts.

Imagine being haunted by a constant fear that your loved one will die unless you tap the light switch exactly five times. Or being plagued by the thought that you have hit someone with your car, even though there is no evidence of it happening, and then going back to the same stretch of road again and again to check. That is the lived reality of OCD. It is not cute, it is not fun, and it definitely does not feel satisfying or neat.

Yes, some people with OCD have cleanliness-related compulsions. But not everyone with OCD is a neat freak, and not all neat freaks have OCD. The need to wash your hands repeatedly until they are raw is not about loving cleanliness; it is about desperately trying to get rid of a feeling that something is terribly wrong. Often, the compulsion is not even rationally linked to the obsession. It is about trying to regain control over overwhelming anxiety, even if only temporarily.

In fact, OCD themes can be disturbingly varied, from fears of harming others to taboo thoughts to symmetry to morality. The common thing is that the thoughts are distressing, the anxiety is debilitating, and the rituals are exhausting.

Why It is Harmful To Mislabel Yourself As “OCD”

Calling yourself “OCD” because you like your stuff arranged by colour might seem harmless. But this kind of throwaway comment does a real disservice to people living with the actual condition. It trivialises their experiences and contributes to misinformation.

It also prevents those who might truly be struggling with OCD from recognising their symptoms and seeking help. Because if society keeps painting OCD as a personality problem, why would anyone think it is a serious problem?

Ask anyone with OCD, and they will tell you it is not fun. It is not satisfying to double-check the lock for the 17th time. It is not enjoyable to feel like you are going to vomit because of a thought you did not ask for and cannot get rid of. It is a relentless loop of “what ifs” and “just in cases” that can take over your entire life.

OCD can interfere with relationships, work, sleep, and basic daily functioning. It is often accompanied by shame and secrecy because people worry others would not understand, or worse, will think they are dangerous or irrational.

You might just be tidy. Or meticulous. Or even perfectionistic. And that is fine. But OCD? That is a diagnosis. A tough, often debilitating one that deserves respect. If you think you might actually have OCD, then help is available. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), has been proven to be effective. But it starts with understanding what OCD really is.

mental health

anxiety disorder

compulsions

obsessions

intrusive thoughts

stigma

mislabelling

If you have ever colour-coded your wardrobe, wiped the kitchen slabs repeatedly just because a speck of dust exists, or straightened a slightly off-centre painting on the wall, someone has probably laughed and said, I am so OCD too. But the thing is that you are probably not. And neither are they.Somewhere along the way, we all misunderstood Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a serious mental health condition, and casually said it. OCD has become shorthand for being neat, organised, or a lover of clean aesthetics. But as mental health professionals and those who actually live with OCD will tell you, that stereotype could not be further from the truth.OCD is a clinically diagnosed anxiety disorder. It is not just about being extra clean or a control freak. It involves a cycle of obsessions, which are intrusive, unwanted thoughts and compulsions, which are repetitive behaviours or mental acts done to try to neutralise those thoughts.Imagine being haunted by a constant fear that your loved one will die unless you tap the light switch exactly five times. Or being plagued by the thought that you have hit someone with your car, even though there is no evidence of it happening, and then going back to the same stretch of road again and again to check. That is the lived reality of OCD. It is not cute, it is not fun, and it definitely does not feel satisfying or neat.The Cleanliness MythYes, some people with OCD have cleanliness-related compulsions. But not everyone with OCD is a neat freak, and not all neat freaks have OCD. The need to wash your hands repeatedly until they are raw is not about loving cleanliness; it is about desperately trying to get rid of a feeling that something is terribly wrong. Often, the compulsion is not even rationally linked to the obsession. It is about trying to regain control over overwhelming anxiety, even if only temporarily.In fact, OCD themes can be disturbingly varied, from fears of harming others to taboo thoughts to symmetry to morality. The common thing is that the thoughts are distressing, the anxiety is debilitating, and the rituals are exhausting.Why It is Harmful To Mislabel Yourself As “OCD”Calling yourself “OCD” because you like your stuff arranged by colour might seem harmless. But this kind of throwaway comment does a real disservice to people living with the actual condition. It trivialises their experiences and contributes to misinformation.It also prevents those who might truly be struggling with OCD from recognising their symptoms and seeking help. Because if society keeps painting OCD as a personality problem, why would anyone think it is a serious problem?What OCD Actually Feels LikeAsk anyone with OCD, and they will tell you it is not fun. It is not satisfying to double-check the lock for the 17th time. It is not enjoyable to feel like you are going to vomit because of a thought you did not ask for and cannot get rid of. It is a relentless loop of “what ifs” and “just in cases” that can take over your entire life.OCD can interfere with relationships, work, sleep, and basic daily functioning. It is often accompanied by shame and secrecy because people worry others would not understand, or worse, will think they are dangerous or irrational.Time To Rethink The LabelYou might just be tidy. Or meticulous. Or even perfectionistic. And that is fine. But OCD? That is a diagnosis. A tough, often debilitating one that deserves respect. If you think you might actually have OCD, then help is available. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), has been proven to be effective. But it starts with understanding what OCD really is. 

loving perfection and cleanliness does not mean you have ocd: here is what the disorder actually means

World IVF Day: What Makes The IVF Journey So Hard On The Mind?

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In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is not just about science, syringes and success rates. What lies behind the walls of fertility clinics is a deeply personal journey filled with hope, heartbreak and resilience, making it more than just a medical procedure. Beyond the social taboos, infertility brings huge stress to the patients. And while IVF offers hope, it does not come easy. It is a rollercoaster ride that patients experience as they take on the road to this procedure; highs and lows can take a severe mental toll on them.

However, for those unversed, infertility has been classified by the World Health Organisation as a disease like diabetes or hypertension; the social taboo around it still persists. Over the years, advancements in reproductive science have made IVF treatments more patient-friendly and significantly improved outcomes. Yet, the focus often leans heavily on science, expertise and clinic proficiency, while the mental and emotional toll on the couple is overlooked.

For many, the psychological impact of IVF can match that of the death of a family member or going through a divorce. Although many people find IVF very stressful, every patient experiences it differently. Personalities and life experiences play a big role in determining how one handles the process and what part of IVF they find most difficult.

Why Is IVF So Emotionally Draining?

We ask an expert to break down several key factors that contribute to the immense stress IVF brings:

<ul><li>Uncertainty of Outcomes</li></ul>Despite impressive advancements in technology and improved success rates, IVF still does not come with guaranteed results. The lingering “what if” looms large over every cycle.

<ul><li>Physical Strain</li></ul>From the painful injections to hormone-induced mood swings and headaches, the physical toll is real. Frequent clinic visits often interfere with work and daily routines, compounding the exhaustion.

<ul><li>Societal Pressure</li></ul>Dr Shilpa Saple, Director at Surya Fertility Clinics, explains that societal expectations around having a child add to the emotional burden. Cultural pressures can be intense, especially when extended families and communities expect results quickly.

<ul><li>Guilt and Shame</li></ul>This is especially true in cases of male-factor infertility. “Many men may not disclose any sexual problems they have,” says Dr Saple, leading to feelings of inadequacy and emotional isolation.

<ul><li>Depression After Failed Attempts</li></ul>When a cycle does not result in a pregnancy, it can lead to overwhelming disappointment and depression. Each failed attempt chips away at the couple’s morale.

<ul><li>Relationship Strain</li></ul>The IVF journey can test even the strongest relationships. “Intimacy and communication can be affected,” says Dr Saple, as couples find themselves under immense emotional and logistical stress.

Learning to Cope with Support Systems That Help

There is light at the end of the tunnel, and as Dr Saple says, there are several strategies that can help couples better cope with the IVF process.

<ul><li>Psychological Counselling</li></ul>Talking to a trained counsellor can offer clarity, emotional relief and perspective during this emotionally taxing time.

<ul><li>Support Groups</li></ul>Dr Saple says sharing experiences can help. Listening to others' IVF journeys can offer comfort, reassurance and hope.

<ul><li>Mind–Body Practices</li></ul>“Yoga, meditation, deep breathing and mindfulness can help calm the mind,” advises Dr Saple. Regular physical activity also boosts endorphins, naturally elevating mood and reducing anxiety.

Setting Realistic Expectations

“IVF may take more than one cycle to succeed,” she explains. Being mentally prepared for the outcome, while knowing you have done your best, helps couples accept results with resilience.

It is Okay to Ask for Help

As Dr Saple reminds us, mental and emotional health are as important as physical health during IVF. Prioritising emotional wellbeing not only makes the journey more bearable but can also improve the overall outcome. “Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness,” she says.

World Health Organisation

diabetes

physical strain

societal pressure

depression

relationship strain

psychological counselling

endorphins

mindfulness

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is not just about science, syringes and success rates. What lies behind the walls of fertility clinics is a deeply personal journey filled with hope, heartbreak and resilience, making it more than just a medical procedure. Beyond the social taboos, infertility brings huge stress to the patients. And while IVF offers hope, it does not come easy. It is a rollercoaster ride that patients experience as they take on the road to this procedure; highs and lows can take a severe mental toll on them. However, for those unversed, infertility has been classified by the World Health Organisation as a disease like diabetes or hypertension; the social taboo around it still persists. Over the years, advancements in reproductive science have made IVF treatments more patient-friendly and significantly improved outcomes. Yet, the focus often leans heavily on science, expertise and clinic proficiency, while the mental and emotional toll on the couple is overlooked.For many, the psychological impact of IVF can match that of the death of a family member or going through a divorce. Although many people find IVF very stressful, every patient experiences it differently. Personalities and life experiences play a big role in determining how one handles the process and what part of IVF they find most difficult.Why Is IVF So Emotionally Draining? We ask an expert to break down several key factors that contribute to the immense stress IVF brings:Uncertainty of OutcomesDespite impressive advancements in technology and improved success rates, IVF still does not come with guaranteed results. The lingering “what if” looms large over every cycle.Physical StrainFrom the painful injections to hormone-induced mood swings and headaches, the physical toll is real. Frequent clinic visits often interfere with work and daily routines, compounding the exhaustion.Societal PressureDr Shilpa Saple, Director at Surya Fertility Clinics, explains that societal expectations around having a child add to the emotional burden. Cultural pressures can be intense, especially when extended families and communities expect results quickly.Guilt and ShameThis is especially true in cases of male-factor infertility. “Many men may not disclose any sexual problems they have,” says Dr Saple, leading to feelings of inadequacy and emotional isolation.Depression After Failed AttemptsWhen a cycle does not result in a pregnancy, it can lead to overwhelming disappointment and depression. Each failed attempt chips away at the couple’s morale.Relationship StrainThe IVF journey can test even the strongest relationships. “Intimacy and communication can be affected,” says Dr Saple, as couples find themselves under immense emotional and logistical stress.Learning to Cope with Support Systems That HelpThere is light at the end of the tunnel, and as Dr Saple says, there are several strategies that can help couples better cope with the IVF process.Psychological CounsellingTalking to a trained counsellor can offer clarity, emotional relief and perspective during this emotionally taxing time.Support GroupsDr Saple says sharing experiences can help. Listening to others' IVF journeys can offer comfort, reassurance and hope.Mind–Body Practices“Yoga, meditation, deep breathing and mindfulness can help calm the mind,” advises Dr Saple. Regular physical activity also boosts endorphins, naturally elevating mood and reducing anxiety.Setting Realistic Expectations“IVF may take more than one cycle to succeed,” she explains. Being mentally prepared for the outcome, while knowing you have done your best, helps couples accept results with resilience.It is Okay to Ask for HelpAs Dr Saple reminds us, mental and emotional health are as important as physical health during IVF. Prioritising emotional wellbeing not only makes the journey more bearable but can also improve the overall outcome. “Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness,” she says.

world ivf day: what makes the ivf journey so hard on the mind?

Ishita Roy

Family Urges Flu Vaccination After 8-Year-Old's Near-Fatal Influenza B Fight

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NHS Pushes To Vaccinate 400,000+ Youths To Eliminated Cervical Cancer By 2040

nhs pushes to vaccinate 400,000+ youths to eliminated cervical cancer by 2040

COVID Booster Vaccines Show Unexpected Effect On People With Cancer: Study

covid booster vaccines show unexpected effect on people with cancer: study

Millie Campbell was just eight years old in 2019 when a missed flu shot turned into a life-threatening ordeal, notes ABC News, Australia. What began with aches in her legs soon escalated into multiple organ failure caused by influenza B, a virus her parents never imagined could be so severe.

“They had to drain 200 millilitres of fluid from her heart, it was struggling,” her mother Stephanie Campbell recalled. “I think the doctor's words were: ‘Your daughter could die tonight’.”

Millie was airlifted from Newcastle to Westmead Children’s Hospital in Sydney, reports ABC News. Soon after arriving, she went into cardiac arrest. Her father, Ian Campbell, described the scene as surreal. “There was no indication she was going to survive,” he said.

Millie, previously fit and healthy with no pre-existing conditions, spent weeks in intensive care and six months in hospital. The damage from being on life support for so long led to poor circulation, and eventually, doctors had to amputate her left foot.

She had to learn to walk again. Today, reports ABC News, Millie uses a prosthetic leg and has turned to swimming not just for rehabilitation, but as a passion, one that has taken her to national championships and World Trials. Her eyes are now set on the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles.

“Millie’s recovery will be a lifelong journey,” Ms Campbell said. “Seeing how severe the flu can be, our message is: talk to your medical practitioner about the vaccine.”

<h4>Why Influenza B Is Hitting Children Hard</h4>

Although influenza A typically gets more public attention due to its pandemic potential, Australia has seen a sharp rise in influenza B cases, especially in children aged 5 to 16. According to Professor Patrick Reading from the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Influenza Research, type B can often be more severe in children, though the reason remains unclear.

“It's a bit of a mystery,” Professor Reading told ABC News. “We see this association, but we can't say there's something specific about the virus that causes it to affect children more.”

Vaccination rates among this age group are currently the lowest of all, following a steady decline since the COVID-19 pandemic. Professor Reading warned that fading immunity, combined with lower vaccine uptake, is placing a burden on the healthcare system.

“We're not through the worst of it yet. Flu circulation continues through August to October,” he added. “It’s not too late to get vaccinated.”

<h4>Confusion Around Flu Vaccine Access</h4>

Millie’s parents said they’d always kept up with her vaccinations. But once she turned five, they mistakenly believed the flu wasn’t a major risk anymore. 

Under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), the flu vaccine is free only for children aged six months to five years, people over 65, and other vulnerable groups.

In contrast, states like Queensland and Western Australia are temporarily offering free vaccines to all residents, a move public health experts say should be adopted nationally.

Julie Leask, a vaccination policy expert from the University of Sydney, told ABC News, the current risk-based model isn't working. “When a vaccine is on the NIP, it sends a strong message that it's important,” she said. “Some doctors still wrongly advise against it for kids.”

<h4>Misinformation and Vaccine Hesitancy</h4>

Falling childhood vaccination rates, rising anti-vaccine sentiment, and misinformation, especially on social media, have complicated public health efforts.

Professor Leask pointed to anti-vaccine rhetoric, such as that from US politician Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as a growing influence in Australia. Kennedy has falsely linked vaccines to autism and recently pushed against COVID-19 vaccinations for children and pregnant women.

“We’re seeing the mainstreaming of misinformation,” Leask warned. “It’s having a ripple effect here too.”

Research shows common reasons parents skip the flu shot for kids include a lack of awareness, absence of a healthcare provider recommendation, time constraints, cost, and safety concerns.

As Millie thrives in her new life, her parents remain vocal about the importance of vaccination.

“This growing hesitancy is driven by people struggling to tell the difference between facts and misinformation,” Mr Campbell said. “Most people spend more time on social media than listening to experts, but that’s not where you should be getting your health advice.”

“Vaccination protects not just your child but the whole community.”

kids news

influenza b

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influenza b in australia

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Millie Campbell was just eight years old in 2019 when a missed flu shot turned into a life-threatening ordeal, notes ABC News, Australia. What began with aches in her legs soon escalated into multiple organ failure caused by influenza B, a virus her parents never imagined could be so severe.“They had to drain 200 millilitres of fluid from her heart, it was struggling,” her mother Stephanie Campbell recalled. “I think the doctor's words were: ‘Your daughter could die tonight’.”Millie was airlifted from Newcastle to Westmead Children’s Hospital in Sydney, reports ABC News. Soon after arriving, she went into cardiac arrest. Her father, Ian Campbell, described the scene as surreal. “There was no indication she was going to survive,” he said.A Long Road to RecoveryMillie, previously fit and healthy with no pre-existing conditions, spent weeks in intensive care and six months in hospital. The damage from being on life support for so long led to poor circulation, and eventually, doctors had to amputate her left foot.She had to learn to walk again. Today, reports ABC News, Millie uses a prosthetic leg and has turned to swimming not just for rehabilitation, but as a passion, one that has taken her to national championships and World Trials. Her eyes are now set on the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles.“Millie’s recovery will be a lifelong journey,” Ms Campbell said. “Seeing how severe the flu can be, our message is: talk to your medical practitioner about the vaccine.”Why Influenza B Is Hitting Children HardAlthough influenza A typically gets more public attention due to its pandemic potential, Australia has seen a sharp rise in influenza B cases, especially in children aged 5 to 16. According to Professor Patrick Reading from the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Influenza Research, type B can often be more severe in children, though the reason remains unclear.“It's a bit of a mystery,” Professor Reading told ABC News. “We see this association, but we can't say there's something specific about the virus that causes it to affect children more.”Vaccination rates among this age group are currently the lowest of all, following a steady decline since the COVID-19 pandemic. Professor Reading warned that fading immunity, combined with lower vaccine uptake, is placing a burden on the healthcare system.“We're not through the worst of it yet. Flu circulation continues through August to October,” he added. “It’s not too late to get vaccinated.”Confusion Around Flu Vaccine AccessMillie’s parents said they’d always kept up with her vaccinations. But once she turned five, they mistakenly believed the flu wasn’t a major risk anymore. Under the National Immunisation Program (NIP), the flu vaccine is free only for children aged six months to five years, people over 65, and other vulnerable groups.In contrast, states like Queensland and Western Australia are temporarily offering free vaccines to all residents, a move public health experts say should be adopted nationally.Julie Leask, a vaccination policy expert from the University of Sydney, told ABC News, the current risk-based model isn't working. “When a vaccine is on the NIP, it sends a strong message that it's important,” she said. “Some doctors still wrongly advise against it for kids.”Misinformation and Vaccine HesitancyFalling childhood vaccination rates, rising anti-vaccine sentiment, and misinformation, especially on social media, have complicated public health efforts.Professor Leask pointed to anti-vaccine rhetoric, such as that from US politician Robert F. Kennedy Jr., as a growing influence in Australia. Kennedy has falsely linked vaccines to autism and recently pushed against COVID-19 vaccinations for children and pregnant women.“We’re seeing the mainstreaming of misinformation,” Leask warned. “It’s having a ripple effect here too.”Research shows common reasons parents skip the flu shot for kids include a lack of awareness, absence of a healthcare provider recommendation, time constraints, cost, and safety concerns.A Family’s Call to ActionAs Millie thrives in her new life, her parents remain vocal about the importance of vaccination.“This growing hesitancy is driven by people struggling to tell the difference between facts and misinformation,” Mr Campbell said. “Most people spend more time on social media than listening to experts, but that’s not where you should be getting your health advice.”“Vaccination protects not just your child but the whole community.”

family urges flu vaccination after 8-year-old's near-fatal influenza b fight

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