Influenza, otherwise commonly known as the flu, is a potentially serious health risk to your child. Therefore, your child should get a flu vaccination. Most children can get the vaccine with little or no problem. Flu vaccines not only protect your child from the flu. They also protect the other people around them, including you, your child's friends, and their teachers.

Here is more information about flu vaccines, how they protect your child, and when your child should get one.

What Does the Flu Vaccine Do?

The flu vaccine protects your child from certain variations of the influenza virus. It is based on the most common influenza strains from the previous season. Even though the flu virus often mutates, the vaccine still provides protection. Flu vaccines are proven to reduce serious cases of the flu. This means less chance of hospitalization, especially with high-risk populations.

Does the Flu Vaccine Cause the Flu?

No, the flu vaccine does not cause the flu. The vaccine is composed of inactive (dead) versions of the virus. However, some people's immune system may react strongly to the vaccine. This may result in flu-like symptoms, such as body aches and fever, soon after vaccination. Also, the vaccine is not fully effective for about two weeks, so your child could still get the flu during that time.

How Old Should Children Be to Get Vaccinated?

Most children over six months old can be vaccinated. If your child is under eight, and has never received a flu shot, then two doses, given a month apart, are especially effective. After that, most children and adults can get only one shot per year. While very young infants should not be vaccinated, if you are pregnant, then a flu shot will protect you and your fetus.

Can Children With Egg Allergies Be Vaccinated?

In the past, people with egg allergies were told that they could not receive the flu shot. This is because the vaccine is developed with eggs. However, current recommendations are that the amount of egg in the vaccine is negligible.

People with egg allergies should be fine with the flu vaccine. If your child has severe reactions to eggs, such as asthma, then you may wish to have him or her vaccinated at the doctor's office rather than at a pharmacy or flu shot clinic.

Which Children Should Not Be Vaccinated?

Most children are eligible for the flu vaccine. However, children with Guillain-Barre Syndrome are usually told to abstain from vaccination. Guillain-Barre syndrome is a rare auto-immune disease that attacks the nerves.

If your child has allergies to other components of the vaccine, such as gelatin or antibiotics, then talk to their doctor first. Children who are sick with a fever may need to have their vaccine postponed until they are better.

When Should Children Be Vaccinated?

The best time for your child to receive a vaccination is before the main part of the flu season starts. This is usually around October. However, your child can be vaccinated at any time of the year. Even if your child receives the vaccine late in the season, he or she still has protection against that year's flu strains. If your child has problems with injections, then he or she may be eligible for a nasal vaccine if any are available.

The flu vaccine is a very effective measure to protect your child, and everyone else, from the potential deadly influenza virus. If you are concerned about how this vaccine may affect your child, or whether your child should get vaccinated, then talk to a doctor.



The staff and doctors at Advocare Lerch & Amato Pediatrics can answer your questions and concerns about vaccination. We can even give your child a flu shot right in our office. Call us for an appointment during our convenient open hours.