Updated: November 11, 2023
Originally Published: November 6, 2013
Regardless of your personal beliefs about flu vaccines, when it comes to the health of your children, it’s vital to understand the serious risks associated with not vaccinating them. The flu can be far more severe than many realize; it poses a significant threat to children, and you can’t shield them from every risk. As a parent, your choices may be yours alone, but arming your child with the necessary defenses against flu this season is crucial.
Consider this alarming statistic: last winter, 171 children lost their lives to the flu in the United States. That number is heartbreaking, especially when we have access to preventative measures like vaccines. If a simple shot can help avoid such tragedies, why wouldn’t you take that step? The flu season typically runs from October through February, so it’s best to get your children vaccinated early. Don’t wait until it’s too late, or you find yourself scrambling for the last available doses, especially after promising them treats for being brave!
How Do the Vaccines Work?
This year, flu vaccinations are designed to protect against three or four strains of the virus that are expected to be most prevalent. You typically have two options for vaccination: the nasal spray or the injection. After receiving the vaccine, your body begins to produce antibodies within two weeks, providing protection against infection. If your child does contract the flu, the symptoms are usually much milder, akin to a common cold.
The injection contains an inactivated version of the virus, meaning it won’t cause the flu itself. Some people claim they get sick from the vaccine, but that’s generally a misconception. Post-vaccination, you might notice slight redness, tenderness at the injection site, or a mild fever for a day or two — all of which are minor compared to the potential severity of the flu.
The nasal spray, on the other hand, uses a weakened form of the live virus, which does elicit an immune response without causing a full-blown illness. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, and children with asthma may be better off with the injection due to potential respiratory reactions. Side effects from the nasal spray can include a runny nose, sore throat, or cough, and for kids, it may also involve wheezing or fever — symptoms that typically resolve within a few days.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
Vaccination not only protects your child but also helps reduce the spread to others. Imagine if your child became the source of a flu outbreak! Beyond that, fewer sick days translate to more time for family fun and less time spent worrying about illness. According to the CDC, everyone aged six months and older should consider getting vaccinated.
Here’s a list of those who should definitely get the vaccine:
- Pregnant women (injection only)
- Children under 5 years old, especially those in daycare or preschool
- Anyone aged 50 and over
- Individuals with chronic health issues
- Residents of nursing homes or long-term care facilities
- Caregivers and family members of high-risk individuals
Exemptions include individuals with serious egg allergies, those who’ve had severe reactions to past vaccines, and children under 6 months old, among others.
In just 1-2 days of mild side effects from the vaccine, you can greatly reduce the risk of your child becoming seriously ill from the flu. There’s only so much you can do to protect them from illness, especially in community settings like schools. Ensuring they have the immunity to fight off the flu is a gift they’ll appreciate now and in the future! If you have doubts about vaccinations, I encourage you to consult with your healthcare provider for guidance.
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Summary
Ensuring your child receives the flu vaccine is crucial for their health and that of their peers. With a simple shot, you can help protect them from severe illness and complications associated with the flu. Consult your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns.