A yearly flu shot is one of the best ways to help protect your child from serious illness.
who should get the flu shot?
Dayton Children’s encourages everyone 6 months and older to get their flu shot early to build protection before flu activity increases. Children with asthma, diabetes or other chronic health conditions may be at higher risk for complications from the flu. Getting vaccinated helps protect your child and the people around them.
why does the flu shot matter?
The flu shot helps protect against the viruses expected to cause illness this season. While a flu shot can’t guarantee your child won’t get the flu, it can help reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and complications. A flu shot is one of the best ways to help keep kids healthy and in school this fall and winter.
when should my child get a flu shot?
It’s best to get vaccinated before flu activity increases in the community. We recommend getting the flu shot by the end of October.
flu shot myth busters
Myth – the flu shot can give you the flu
Fact – It doesn’t! The flu shot uses a killed virus, so it can’t cause the flu.
Myth – you don’t need a flu shot every year
Fact – Everyone 6 months of age and older should get the flu vaccine each year. Flu strains change every year, and so does the shot.
Myth – you can’t prevent getting the flu
Fact – While there is no way to prevent the flu altogether, the flu shot is your best defense against serious illness from the flu!
