Grounding the Flu, New Recommendations for Immunization
Medical experts want to give kids a “shot” at good health this winter.
Flu shots recommended beginning at age 6 months
This year, The Centers for Disease Control’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is recommending that all children ages 6 months through 18 years of age get a flu shot. This recommendation extends the age group that was in the previous recommendation for flu shots (5 years to 18 years).
Health experts attribute the recommendation to the fact that kids and teens aren’t diligent in taking precautions against the spread of disease. They tend to wash their hands less, cough and sneeze without covering their mouths, and share food and drink. In addition, schools, preschools and daycare centers are perfect incubators for germs.
The "flu" and how it affects your child
Influenza is a virus that infects the respiratory tract. Symptoms include high fever, chills, severe muscle aches and headache. The virus also causes runny nose and a cough that can last for weeks. Complications of influenza include severe, and occasionally fatal, pneumonia.
When to get a flu shot
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say the optimal time to get the influenza vaccine is between September and November. Because flu viruses change every year, the vaccine is updated annually. So, even if you and your children got flu shots last year, you will all need to get a flu shot this season to be protected.
For children who are afraid of shots, a nasal spray vaccine called FluMist is available for healthy children age 2 and over.
Side effects from flu shots are rare
Side effects from the influenza vaccine are rare. However, those with egg allergies may experience a severe allergic reaction to the vaccine. Children with egg allergies who are at high risk should consult with their pediatrician.
Reviewed by: Patrick S. Pasquariello Jr., MD
Date: November 2009
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