Flu Vaccine for Children

Flu Vaccine for Children

A flu vaccine is the best protection against the flu (influenza) for your child and other family members. The vaccine is given to your child in the form of a shot (injection) or nasal spray. Talk with your child's healthcare provider about which vaccine is best for your child. It’s best to get vaccinated each year, as soon as the vaccine is available in your area. This can be at your healthcare provider's office, health clinic, or pharmacy. If you have questions, talk with your child’s healthcare provider.

Woman sitting on exam table with baby on lap. Healthcare provider preparing to give baby injection.

Flu facts

  • The virus in the flu vaccine has been killed (inactivated) and won’t give your child the flu.

  • The flu is caused by a virus. It can’t be treated with antibiotics.

  • The flu can be life threatening. Every year, thousands of people die from complications of the flu.

  • Influenza is not the same as stomach flu, the 24-hour bug that causes vomiting and diarrhea. Stomach flu is most likely caused by a GI (gastrointestinal) infection, not the flu.

  • Flu vaccines are safe for most children. If you have questions or concerns, talk with your child’s healthcare provider.

How a flu vaccine protects your child

There are many types (strains) of flu viruses. Medical experts predict which strains are most likely to make people sick each year. Flu vaccines are made from these strains. With the shot, killed (inactivated) flu viruses are injected into your child’s body. The vaccines prompt the body to make antibodies to fight these flu strains.

Some children may get mild symptoms after a flu vaccine. These may include a runny nose, fever, or pain at the injection site for a day or 2. Symptoms can be managed with children’s strength over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. Always talk with your child’s healthcare provider before using OTC medicines. Note: Don’t give OTC cough and cold medicines to a child younger than age 6, unless your child's provider tells you to do so. Don’t give your child aspirin. Don’t give ibuprofen to an infant age 6 months or younger.

Who should get the flu vaccine?

The CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend that all children 6 months and older get vaccinated, with some exceptions. The number of doses of flu vaccine depends on the child's age and vaccine history. Two doses are needed for children 6 months to 8 years who are getting their first flu vaccine.

The AAP recommends the flu shot as the first choice for the vaccine. A nasal spray made of live but weakened flu virus is available for the 2018-2019 flu season for healthy children 2 years and older who don't get the flu shot.

Some conditions may prevent your child from being vaccinated. Talk with your child's healthcare provider if you are concerned about whether your child should get the flu vaccine. Children may not be able to get a flu shot if they:

  • Have had severe allergic reactions to previous flu vaccines

  • Have had Guillain-Barré syndrome. This is a serious paralyzing condition.

Online Medical Reviewer: Bass, Pat F. III, MD, MPH

Online Medical Reviewer: Cunningham, Louise, RN

Date Last Reviewed: 1/1/2017

© 2000-2019 StayWell, 780 Township Line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

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