Public Health

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Protecting Children From Flu

Flu season is upon us and although nobody enjoys getting a shot (especially children), vaccinations are extremely important in guarding against the flu. In fact, the flu shot is the single best way to prevent anyone from this nasty disease.

So, who needs a flu shot?

Almost everyone. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that *everyone 6 months and older should receive a seasonal flu vaccine.  However, it is especially critical for children who suffer from the following (or come in contact with these high-risk children):

• Neurological and neurodevelopmental conditions [including disorders of the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerve, and muscle such as cerebral palsy, epilepsy (seizure disorders), stroke, intellectual disability (mental retardation), moderate to severe developmental delay, muscular dystrophy, or spinal cord injury]
• Chronic lung disease (such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD] and cystic fibrosis)
• Heart conditions (such as congenital heart disease, congestive heart failure and coronary artery disease)
• Blood disorders (such as sickle cell disease)
• Endocrine disorders (such as diabetes)
• Kidney disorders
• Liver disorders
• Asthma
• Metabolic disorders (such as inherited metabolic disorders and mitochondrial disorders)
• Weakened immune system due to disease or medication (such as people with HIV/AIDS or cancer, or those on chronic steroids)
• Children who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy

*Since children under the age of 6 months are too young to be vaccinated, protect them by ensuring that all family members and everyone around them are vaccinated.

When should I get my child a flu shot?

It’s a smart idea to get your child vaccinated as soon as the vaccine becomes available in your community so that they will be protected by the time flu season begins. 

Each year an average of 20,000 children under the age of 5 are hospitalized from the flu. Don’t let your child be one of them—go and get your child vaccinated today!

Caring for those who need it most,

Children’s Home Healthcare