It's not too late. The influenza vaccine is safe and effective for babies and kids.

As the Pediatrician at Child & Adolescent Health Center, parents lately have been asking me, “should I get a flu shot for my child this year?” 

With the goal of providing straight facts about the influenza vaccine, I hope to encourage those still considering the vaccine. Below I have summarized the facts about influenza vaccination for children.  

Influenza, or the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. While most people who contract the flu will experience mild to moderate symptoms and recover without complications, it can be particularly dangerous for certain populations, including young children.  

One way to protect children from the flu is to ensure they receive the influenza vaccination yearly. Here are just a few reasons why it’s important for children to get vaccinated: 

1. Protection against severe illness: Getting vaccinated can significantly reduce the likelihood that a child will develop severe symptoms if they do contract the flu. This is especially important for children with underlying health conditions that put them at higher risk for complications from the flu. 

1. Reduction in hospitalizations: Children who receive the flu vaccine are less likely to require hospitalization due to flu-related complications. Hospitalization can be a traumatic experience for children and their families, so any measures that can reduce the need for hospitalization should be taken seriously. 

1. Decrease in transmission: Vaccinated children are less likely to transmit the flu to others, including vulnerable populations such as infants and the elderly. By reducing the spread of the flu, we can protect entire communities and help prevent flu-related deaths. 

1. Convenience and affordability: The flu vaccine is widely available and often covered by insurance. Many schools and community organizations offer flu shot clinics, making it easy and convenient for parents to get their children vaccinated. 

It’s also worth noting that the flu vaccine is safe for children. The CDC recommends that everyone over the age of six months receive the flu vaccine each year, including pregnant women and those with chronic health conditions. While some children may experience mild side effects such as soreness at the injection site or a low-grade fever, these are typically short-lived and mild compared to the potential complications of the flu. 

The influenza vaccine is an important tool in protecting your child from the flu and its potentially severe complications. By receiving the flu vaccine each year, we can help reduce the spread of the flu and protect vulnerable populations. Parents and caregivers can talk to their child’s pediatrician about getting their child vaccinated and ensuring up-to-date status on all recommended vaccines. 

I look forward to seeing you in the office. 

Your partner in health, 

Fiona Carroll, MD