The CDC and the American Academy of
Pediatrics (AAP) recommend that all children 6 months and older get vaccinated, with
some exceptions. The vaccine is most often given by a shot into the muscle. 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.
Because of the COVID-19 pandemic,
the CDC and AAP strongly advise getting a flu vaccine during 2020-2021 to protect
yourself, your family, and others. Flu viruses and the COVID-19 virus are both likely
to
spread during flu season. A flu vaccine will help save medical resources to care for
people with COVID-19. People at high risk for complications from the flu are also
likely
to be at high risk for serious problems from COVID-19, so it's important to get a
flu
vaccine.
A nasal spray made of live but
weakened flu virus is available for healthy children 2 years and older who don't want
the flu shot.
Children younger than 6 months of
age are too young to get the flu vaccine.
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: