Here are the top 3 questions parents ask when it comes to the flu vaccine: 

1 | Who should get the flu shot?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older. It’s especially important for those who are at greater risk of developing health problems from the flu, including all kids 6 months through 5 years old (babies younger than 6 months are also considered high risk, but they cannot receive the flu vaccine) – among others.

2| What are the different tyoes if flu shots?

Different types of flu vaccines are available. One type (called trivalent) protects against three strains of the flu virus (usually, two types of influenza A viruses and one influenza B virus). Another type (called quadrivalent) protects against four strains (usually, two types of influenza A viruses and two types of influenza B viruses). The vaccine is given to kids by injection with a needle (the flu shot). The flu shot is preferred for children of all ages because it has been shown to be safe and effective. The nasal spray vaccine was not recommended for the last two flu seasons because it didn’t work as well as the shot. People with weakened immune systems or some health conditions (such as asthma) and pregnant women should not get the nasal spray vaccine.

Vaccine shortages and delays sometimes happen, so check with your doctor about availability and to see which vaccine is right for your kids.

3 | When should kids get the flu shot?

Flu season runs from April to October. It’s best to get a flu shot as early in the season as possible, as it gives the body a chance to build up immunity to (protection from) the flu. But getting a shot later in the season is still better than not getting the vaccine at all.

Now that you know a little more about the flu shot, are you pro getting a flu vaccine for your little one? If you have any more questions on the wether a flu shot is right for your tiny tot, contact us and will guide you through this flu season.