Should I get the flu vaccine for my child?

By Katie M. Bell, RPA-C

Yes!  Influenza vaccines are strongly recommended for all children over six months of age.  Flu vaccines are especially recommended for any child with asthma, allergies, or other chronic conditions as the disease can be more progressive in these populations of children.  Any school-aged child or infant attending daycare (six months and older) should be vaccinated as germs and infections tend to spread rapidly in these environments.

The flu vaccine is available as a shot or in a nasal spray form.  The nasal spray is available for children ages two and older, is easily administered, and also covers more strains of the influenza virus.

The flu vaccine is safe and is not proven to cause any symptoms of the actual disease.  The vaccine is also recommended for adults.  Parents and grandparents of young children, especially, should remember to get the flu vaccine to help prevent spreading influenza to their children and grandchildren.