If you’ve paid attention to the news this summer, you’re probably aware that the ‘back to school’ plan in your area will look different from past years. Children might be headed to in-person learning, they might be staying home, or there might be a combination of the two. Although COVID-19 is the main health concern for many Americans, it’s also time to make a plan for flu vaccination.
Along with concerns about the spread of COVID-19, we all need to prepare for the arrival of seasonal flu – another potentially deadly virus. The good news is that we can mitigate the threat of influenza with good hygiene, smart choices about when and how to leave the house, and, as always, an annual flu vaccine.
Why is it so important to have your children (and yourself) vaccinated for seasonal flu protection during the ‘back to school’ season?
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- Children have the highest rate of flu infection when compared to the general population.
- Flu illness is more dangerous than the common cold for children.
- Children commonly need medical care because of flu, especially children under the age of five.
- Young children are at a higher risk of flu-related complications such as pneumonia, dehydration, and even severe outcomes like hospitalizations and death.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 186 children died from flu-related complications this past flu season.
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Recommendations for flu vaccination in children:
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- Communicate with school administrators, fellow parents, family members, and friends about the importance of annual flu vaccination during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Share social media posts that highlight why flu vaccines are safe and necessary
- Set a date for your family to get their annual flu vaccines, preferably by the end of October
- If your child is afraid of needles, consider the nasal spray vaccine if your child meets the requirements
- Share Families Fighting Flu’s family stories to illustrate why flu is serious and how we all are at risk
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