Why Your Child Needs a Flu Vaccine Every Year
Each fall, flu season returns, and so does one of the simplest ways to protect your family: the annual flu vaccine. At The Pediatric Center, we recommend that all babies and children 6 months and older get a flu shot every fall. Here’s what parents should know.
The Flu Is More Than a Bad Cold
Influenza is an illness caused by the influenza virus. While most people have respiratory symptoms, the flu affects the whole body. Children may have a sudden fever, chills, sore throat, cough, headache, body aches and extreme tiredness. Some also have vomiting and diarrhea. The flu usually lasts a week or longer. In the United States, flu season generally runs through fall and winter and can stretch into spring.
Why a New Vaccine Is Needed Each Year
There are many types of influenza viruses, and they change over time. That’s why people can get the flu many times in their lives and why every flu season is a little different. Each year, a new flu vaccine is made to protect against the viruses expected to cause illness in the upcoming season. Even when the vaccine isn’t an exact match, it may still provide some protection.
Why Young Children Face Higher Risk
Anyone can get the flu, but infants and young children are among those at greatest risk of complications. Young children are hospitalized for the flu at rates similar to older adults. Complications can include ear infections, sinus infections, bronchitis and pneumonia, and the flu can be deadly even for previously healthy children. Young children also spread the flu easily to classmates, to family members at home and throughout the community. That’s why everyone in the family should be vaccinated.
Common Myths About the Flu Shot
Myth: The flu shot can give you the flu.
Fact: The flu vaccine does not cause the flu. Some children have mild side effects afterward, but these are not the flu.
Myth: My child is healthy, so the flu shot isn’t necessary.
Fact: The flu can be serious for any child. Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent it.
Mild Side Effects to Expect
Side effects are usually mild. After the shot, your child may have:
- Soreness, redness or swelling where the shot was given
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Headache
Let your provider know if your child has ever had a seizure or an allergic reaction after a flu vaccine.
Why Some Children Need Two Doses
Children 6 months through 8 years old may need two doses of flu vaccine in a single flu season. Everyone else needs just one dose each season. Our providers will let you know if your child needs a second dose.
Schedule Your Child’s Flu Shot This Fall
It takes about two weeks for protection to develop after vaccination, so it’s best not to wait. Contact your nearest Pediatric Center office in Toledo, Oregon or Lambertville to schedule your child’s flu shot today. You can find phone numbers and addresses for all of our offices on our Locations page.
