Flu is usually a sudden onset of fever, body aches, and headaches. A sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and cough generally follow. The flu vaccine can help prevent these symptoms. The vaccine is safe for any child 6 months or older and adults. There are a few exceptions and these should be discussed with your doctor. You can not get the flu from getting the flu shot. We start giving the flu shot at such an early age because younger children have an increased risk of being hospitalized and having more complications from the flu. There are also more complications for people with chronic health problems such as asthma, COPD, diabetes, cystic fibrosis and kidney disease. Pregnant women also have more complications if they get the flu while pregnant. If you or someone in your family has any of these or other long term health problems, please talk with your doctor about your flu shot.
Even if your family members get the flu shot, you still need to make sure everyone washes their hands and avoids touching their face. These two things will decrease the chance of spreading the viruses. Hopefully, with these and the flu vaccine, we can all have a healthier flu season.
-Dr. Sharon Rouse, D.O. is a Pediatrician at the Center for Family Health
