Flu Vaccine for Children: What You Need to Know

1. Flu Vaccine for Children: What You Need to Know Babies and children younger than nine years of age (especially children younger than 2 years old) are at a high risk of facing complications arising from the flu. Flu vaccine for infants offers the best protection against the flu and and prevention of spreading it to other children. Getting timely flu shots for children can prevent flu-related hospitalizations, missed work and school days, flu illness, and pediatrician visits. Parents must remember that the flu can be more dangerous to children than the common cold. Each year, thousands of infants and children get sick with seasonal flu and are hospitalized, sometimes leading to death. Complications that can arise from influenza include: ● Dehydration ● Ear infections ● Sinus problems ● Pneumonia ● Long term medical problems such as asthma or heart diseases ● In very rare cases, even death Flu signs and symptoms: ● Abrupt onset of fever ● Headache ● Body aches and fatigue ● Respiratory-tract symptoms including a cough ● Sore throat and an irritated nose How to protect your child from the flu

2. The best way to protect your little one is with a ​flu shot for children​. It is imperative that children and adults get a flu shot before the season kicks in, usually by the end of October, and ideally as soon as the vaccine is available each year. What is the proper dosage? Children from 6 months to 9 years of age require two doses of the vaccine during their first season to optimize the treatment. However, each subsequent year, children might only need a single standard dose. It is best to consult with your pediatrician to decide the best course of treatment. Remember that like any other vaccine, a flu shot for children does not guarantee complete protection. It does greatly reduce the risk of developing severe symptoms. How To Lower The Flu Risk Remember that the ​flu vaccine for infants is the best way to control the risk, but you can minimize the uncertainty in the following ways: ● Teach your children to wash their hands often with soap and water ● Covering coughs and sneezes ● Avoid those who might be sick If your child exhibits flu symptoms, consult your pediatrician immediately. Remember, a flu shot each season can save lives, especially for the very young and elderly.