Many people ask if their children are generally healthy, do they really need a flu shot, and the short answer is yes, they do! Not vaccinating your child could put him or her in real danger. It is estimated that more than 20,000 children under the age of five are hospitalized each flu season. This is because children are at greater risk of getting the flu and having complications than any other group. This is especially true at school or day care, where the flu shot is very important to protect your child and any other children you come into contact with.
- Children between the ages of 6 months and 18 years should be vaccinated every year.
- Parents and everyone who has close contact with children should also be vaccinated, including all child laborers, school teachers, and public service employees. This is especially important for people who care for children younger than 6 months.
- Children ages 6 months to 9 years who are getting a flu shot for the first time should get two doses, one month apart. The first dose introduces the virus into the child’s system and the second dose gives them the immunity they need.
Children who are most at risk and need to be vaccinated include any child with the following chronic health conditions:
- Asthma or any other type of lung or allergic disease
- Any condition that affects your breathing.
- Those with a weakened immune system.
- Those with a kidney problem or disease.
- Those who suffer from high blood pressure or heart disease.
- HIV AIDS
- Any diabetic condition
Every year the flu virus mutates and there’s a different strain, so every year new improved vaccines are developed to target the new strain you’re likely to encounter, so it’s important to have a new flu shot early of each flu season. This is from the end of April to the end of May, but this can vary, so even if you’re late getting your family flu shot, it’s important to have that protection.
Unborn and pregnant women are also considered to be at high risk of developing serious complications, so it is recommended that they get vaccinated early and those women who are likely to become pregnant during the flu season are also recommended to get a flu shot .
Once your child is vaccinated, it will take 2 weeks before they are fully protected against the flu, so see your child’s doctor if you suspect any complications, such as your child not feeling well or having an egg allergy or any other condition that you think may affect them.
If you do not have your child vaccinated:
- Your children between the ages of 2 and 5 are most likely to need urgent medical care from a doctor or emergency room.
- Children are by far the biggest spreaders of the flu. This is because they often forget to practice good hand hygiene and are often exposed to many other people. Children are more susceptible to the flu virus than adults and share it more easily.