Should your child get a flu shot? At what age do they need it? And when? 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), all kids should get the influenza vaccine to protect them from the flu annually, beginning at 6 months of age. This shot should be received ideally by the end of October as it takes a couple of weeks to provide full protection. Young children may need 2 doses (1 month apart) to be fully protected.

What is the Flu?

The flu, short for influenza, is an infection caused by a virus. It can often infect the nose, the throat, and the lungs. In other words, all parts of your respiratory system. 

It is common to confuse the flu with a stomach bug that includes vomiting and diarrhea. True influenza does not typically present with these symptoms. 

Who is at Risk for the Flu?

Because the flu is contagious, many people are likely to come in contact with it and become infected. Most will get better on their own without even visiting the doctor. However, there are a few people who are more at risk for having complications —- including a fatal outcome. 

Who is at risk for flu complications? 

• Young children, especially those who are 2 years old or younger
• Children with asthma, heart disease, or who are immunocompromised
• Women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• Those who will give birth during the flu season
• Older adults over 65 years of age
• Those individuals who work in a residential community setting, such as hospitals, nursing homes, etc. 

Common Symptoms of the Flu

There are a few signs and symptoms that signal your child may have the flu, such as:

• Fever
• Chills
• Body aches
• Nausea
• Dry cough
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Sore throat

It is important to seek medical attention if your child is experiencing any of the following: 

• A fever that will not dissipate, even with fever-reducing medication
• Confusion
• Severe stomach pain
• Chest pain
• Severe or persistent cough
• Difficulty or labored breathing
• Intense muscle aches
• Irritable behavior that cannot be consoled
• Weakness
• Neck stiffness

Keep in mind that your pediatrician can test for the flu. If your child is exhibiting any of the above symptoms, a visit to the doctor will be able to confirm whether or not that is the illness you are dealing with. 

Treating the Flu

The best treatment for the flu is often plenty of rest and lots of liquids. Saltwater gargles for sore throats (for kids old enough) and over-the-counter fever-reducer/pain relievers are also very helpful in getting through this sickness. 

Viral infections are often hard to treat with medication because they do not respond to antibiotics. 

For children at high risk of complications, there are antiviral medications that can reduce the risk of severe complications and may help to reduce the symptoms of the flu. These drugs will not make it disappear but may make your child more comfortable getting through it. 

Antiviral medications can only be prescribed by your pediatrician. They cannot be purchased over the counter. 

Reasons Your Child Needs a Flu Shot

Still on the fence about giving your child the influenza vaccine? We have a few reasons you may want to consider so that your little one can reap the benefits. 

• Children as young as 6 months can receive the flu shot
• The flu shot can protect those who are at risk, including your child
• The vaccinations are very safe — and very few kids will experience any side effects, such as a sore arm at the injection site
• You can not get the flu from the flu shot
• Getting vaccinated will help to keep your kid in school even as germs spread

Giving your child an annual flu shot should become a normal part of caring for their overall health and wellness. 

Let’s Talk Flu Shots at Advocare Haddon Pediatric Group

Now is the time to get your child’s flu vaccination at Advocare Haddon Pediatric Group so that you are prepared for flu season. If you have questions about it or aren’t sure it is the best decision for your little one’s health, let’s talk about it. 



Schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations in Haddon Heights and Mullica Hill.