Influenza (flu) is a seasonal illness that typically circulates each year, with peak activity usually occurring between December and February. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu can lead to serious complications, especially in young children, including pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions like asthma.

Why Vaccinate Your Child Annually?

• Reduces the Risk of Severe Illness:
  The CDC emphasizes that annual flu vaccination significantly reduces the risk of flu-related hospitalizations and severe illness in children.
• Community Protection:
  Regular vaccination helps protect those who are more vulnerable, such as infants, elderly individuals, and those with chronic health conditions.
• Reduces Absences:
  The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) reports that vaccinated children miss fewer days of school due to illness, and their parents miss fewer days of work.

Common Myths About the Flu Vaccine:

• Myth: “The flu vaccine can give you the flu.”
  Truth: Flu vaccines given by injection contain inactivated viruses that cannot cause illness. The nasal spray vaccine contains weakened viruses, which are also unable to cause flu illness in healthy people.
• Myth: “Healthy children don’t need the flu vaccine.”
  Truth: Even healthy children can become seriously ill from influenza.
• Myth: “The flu vaccine isn’t effective.”
  Truth: While effectiveness can vary each year, the flu vaccine consistently reduces the risk of severe illness and complications.

Important Facts to Remember:

• Annual Vaccination is Crucial:
  Flu viruses change each year, making it essential that your child receives an updated vaccine annually. The CDC recommends getting vaccinated by the end of October each year for optimal protection, though vaccination can still be beneficial if received later.
• Vaccine Safety is Assured:
  Flu vaccines undergo rigorous testing and continuous monitoring by health authorities like the CDC and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
• Mild Side Effects:
  Side effects, if any, such as soreness at the injection site or mild fever, are generally minor and short-lived.

Make vaccination a regular part of your child’s healthcare routine.

Contact our office to schedule your child’s next flu vaccine appointment and help ensure their health throughout flu season and beyond.