Get Kids School Ready with Flu Shot

It’s back to school time, but before sending them to school make sure they are protected against illnesses like Inflluenza. Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It affects people of all ages, including children, and can lead to serious complications, especially in vulnerable populations.

The best way to help kids stay in school and ready to learn is by making sure that they take the flu shot.  It’s especially important for children with underlying health conditions, as they are at higher risk for severe flu-related complications. Schedule an appointment with us today for the flu shot.

Here are some important things parents should know about influenza:

Vaccination: Annual flu vaccination is the most effective way to prevent influenza and its complications. The vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older, including children. It’s especially important for children with underlying health conditions, as they are at higher risk for severe flu-related complications. It’s best to get vaccinated before the flu season begins, which typically peaks in winter.

Prevention: Apart from vaccination, other preventive measures include practicing good hand hygiene, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and keeping your child home from school or daycare if they are unwell.

Symptoms: Flu symptoms often include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea in children. Symptoms usually appear suddenly and can be more severe than those of a common cold.

Transmission: Influenza spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching surfaces or objects contaminated with the virus and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.

High-Risk Groups: Certain groups, such as children under 5 years old (especially those under 2), children with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk for flu-related complications. They should take extra precautions and seek medical care promptly if flu symptoms arise.

Complications: Influenza can lead to complications like pneumonia, bronchitis and ear infections, and worsening of chronic medical conditions like asthma. Watch for signs of severe illness, such as difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, dehydration, and changes in mental status, and seek medical attention if necessary.

It’s important to consult with a pediatrician for specific guidance and recommendations tailored to your child’s individual health needs and circumstances. To prevent all these complications, book an appointment with our pediatrician and make sure that your little bundle of joy gets the flu shot before he/she goes back to school.