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PrintProtecting Children and Infants from the Flu
Posted: 01/11/13 at 12:25 pm EST Last Updated: 01/11/13 at 12:43 pm EST
Children are at higher risk for the flu because their immune systems are not fully developed. Children with chronic health conditions are at even higher risk of getting the flu and experiencing complications. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services does not only recommend some children and infants be vaccinated but in some cases their parents or caregivers are encouraged to also.
- Children 6 months and older should get the flu vaccine.
- Children younger than 6 months cannot get the flu vaccine. Get vaccinated yourself and follow our prevention tips to keep them healthy.
- Parents and caregivers of children younger than 5 or with chronic health conditions should get the flu vaccine.
- If your child is younger than 5 or has any chronic health conditions and experiences flu-like symptoms contact a health care provider as soon as possible.
A list of chronic health conditions can be found at: http://www.flu.gov/at-risk/health-conditions/index.html
Some children between 6 months and 8 years old require two doses of flu vaccine. The second dose should be given at least 28 days after the first dose. Your child’s health care provider can tell you whether two doses are recommended for your child.
If you need help paying for your child’s flu vaccine, the Vaccines for Children program can provide assistance.
Because children are at an increased risk of getting pneumonia, a complication of the flu, talk to a health care provider about the pneumococcal vaccine. The pneumococcal vaccine will protect your child against pneumonia.
Seek medical attention immediately if your child:
Is breathing fast or having trouble breathing
Has a bluish skin color
Is not drinking enough fluids
Has severe or persistent vomiting
Is not waking up or interacting
Is irritable and does not want to be held
Has flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough
Has other health conditions and develops flu symptoms, including a fever and/or cough
In infants, watch for the signs above as well as:
Inability to eat
Trouble breathing
No tears when crying
Significantly fewer wet diapers than normal
Information provided by the Deparmtnet of Health and Human Services.
Additional tips can be found by visiting: http://www.flu.gov/at-risk/children/index.html
Additional tips can be found by visiting: http://www.flu.gov/at-risk/children/index.html
