Flu vaccine: Do my children need the flu shot?
I have three children, ages 2, 6 and 8 years old. Do they all need the flu shot?
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Answer
Yes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the flu vaccine for children who are at increased risk of complications from influenza, including:
- Children between the ages of 6 months and 59 months
- Children who have a chronic medical condition, such as asthma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, sickle cell anemia, HIV/AIDS or kidney disease
The CDC also recommends the flu vaccine for all caregivers and close household contacts — including siblings — of children in these high-risk groups. This reduces a child's potential exposure to the influenza virus.
The flu vaccine is available in two forms:
- The flu shot, which is approved for use in children 6 months and older
- The nasal spray flu vaccine (FluMist), which is approved for use in children 2 years and older
Some research suggests that the nasal spray vaccine may be more effective than the flu shot in preventing influenza in children. Consult with your doctor about which form of vaccination may be best for your children.
Children younger than 9 years require two doses of the flu vaccine one month apart if it's the first time they've been vaccinated for influenza. This is important because only one dose does not provide adequate protection. The best time to get a flu shot is before the start of flu season.
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