As flu season approaches, parents often wonder about the benefits of flu shots for their children, especially in the context of ongoing well child visits. This article will explain what the flu vaccine is, why it’s recommended, how effective it is, and how long it provides protection.
Book a visit with the experts at Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates in Houston, Texas, today to stay informed about effective ways to protect your child during flu season!
The flu vaccine, or influenza vaccine, is designed to protect against influenza viruses. These viruses vary yearly, so the vaccine is updated each flu season to target the most current strains. Flu vaccines are available as injections or nasal sprays.
The injectable flu shot contains an inactivated form of the virus, while the nasal spray flu vaccine, known as the live attenuated influenza vaccine, contains a weakened form of the virus. Both options aim to strengthen the immune system’s ability to fight off the flu.
Flu vaccines are strongly recommended for children because they are among the most vulnerable to flu complications. The flu vaccine protects not only against severe illness but also reduces the risk of flu-related hospitalizations and complications.
Annual flu vaccines are endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as a safe, effective way to reduce the likelihood of children getting sick from influenza viruses and spreading them to others, especially during peak flu season.
Flu shots are known for their ability to significantly reduce the likelihood of flu infections and/or the severity of the illness. Each year, researchers work to predict which flu strains will be prevalent, creating a vaccine to target those specific strains.
While the vaccine’s effectiveness varies yearly, it typically ranges from 40% to 60% in preventing flu in vaccinated populations. Even in cases where a vaccinated child contracts the flu, studies show that symptoms tend to be milder than in unvaccinated individuals, lessening the chances of severe complications.
A flu shot’s protective effect typically lasts about six months, covering the duration of the typical flu season, which peaks from October through March.
Since influenza viruses continually evolve, immunity from the previous flu vaccine wanes over time, necessitating an annual update. Each annual flu vaccine is adjusted to target the most recent strains, ensuring the best possible match to circulating viruses.
While flu vaccines are safe for most individuals, some children should not receive them. Children under six months are too young to be vaccinated, and those with severe allergic reactions to egg protein should consult their pediatrician before getting a flu shot. Additionally, children who have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous flu vaccine should speak with their healthcare provider about other options.
The nasal spray flu vaccine is not recommended for children with weakened immune systems or certain chronic health conditions. It is important to talk with a healthcare provider to ensure that each child receives the most appropriate version of the flu vaccine.
Unlike many vaccines, which provide long-term immunity, the flu shot is required yearly. The need for an annual flu vaccine is due to the constantly changing nature of flu viruses. Every year, new flu strains emerge, requiring updates to the influenza vaccine to match the most recent viruses in circulation.
By getting an annual flu vaccine, children maintain optimal protection against the current season’s viruses, enhancing their immunity and contributing to overall disease control.
Flu shots for children are administered as a quick injection, usually in the arm for older kids and the thigh for infants. For those who prefer an alternative, the nasal spray flu vaccine is a painless option for children over two years of age. Both forms are quick and require only a few minutes, making them convenient additions to routine well child visits.
The flu shot is generally safe, with most children experiencing minimal side effects. Some children may experience mild symptoms, such as a low-grade fever, soreness at the injection site, or fatigue, which typically resolve within a day or two.
In rare cases, children may experience more serious side effects like a severe allergic reaction. If your child experiences unusual symptoms following the flu vaccine, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.
Staying ahead of flu season is crucial for parents aiming to protect their children from seasonal illnesses. A flu vaccine protects against the most current influenza viruses, reducing the likelihood of severe illness and helping control the spread of disease in communities. Annual flu shots are a proactive step in safeguarding children’s health, supporting well child visits, and keeping families healthy during the flu season.
To schedule your child’s flu shot, reach out to Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates in Houston, Texas, where our team is dedicated to keeping your child healthy and protected. Book an appointment today to ensure your child is ready for flu season with the latest flu vaccine.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Monica McGrann