Flu is here! We've seen several cases of flu in our office over the last few weeks. Already! While it's too soon to say if it's going to be significant and spread, it has caused us to start offering vaccinations for children now in our practice.
The flu vaccine is available at many places around the country at this time, and you should consider calling your child's doctor to see if you can get it soon. This year, the H1N1 vaccine is included as a strain in the seasonal flu vaccine. So, no need for two different types of vaccines this year. (Thank goodness, last year was a nighttime trying to get all those shots!)
How many flu vaccines does your child need this year? It's kind of confusing, so I'll try to outline it below for you.
If your child is over 9 years old, he/she only needs ONE flu vaccine this year.
If your child is under 9 years old, has had the seasonal (regular) flu vaccine before AND got the H1N1 vaccine last year, then your child only needs one flu vaccine this year. Even if your child only got 1 H1N1 vaccine last year, then he/she only needs ONE flu vaccine this year.
If your child is under 9 years old, has had the seasonal (regular) flu vaccine before, but did NOT get any H1N1 vaccine last year, then your child needs TWO flu vaccines this year. The vaccines need to be at least 1 month apart.
If your child is under 9 years old but has never had the seasonal (regular) flu vaccine, then your child needs TWO flu vaccines this year. The two vaccines need to be at least 1 month apart. Even if your child got the H1N1 vaccine last year, if he/she has NEVER had the seasonal (regular) flu vaccine, then your child needs two flu vaccines this year.
If your child is under 9 years old and has never had any kind of flu vaccine, then your child needs TWO flu vaccines this year. The two vaccines need to be at least 1 month apart.
Babies under 6 months of age cannot receive the vaccine. However, it is highly recommend that everyone else in the house (parents, caregivers, siblings) get the vaccine if they can. This way, hopefully they won't get the flu and bring it home to your baby.
Children who are allergic to eggs may or may not be able to receive the vaccine. They may need to be tested before they are given the vaccine. Check with your child's doctor.
The nasal spray version of the flu vaccine (FluMist) is very effective as well. Children over age 2 may be eligible for the nasal flu vaccine. If your child has asthma or significant wheezing or immune problems, he/she should not receive the nasal spray vaccine. Check with your child's doctor to see which form of the vaccine your child should receive.
It's hard to believe that flu is here already. But H1N1 was here all last summer, too... so I guess we shouldn't be surprised! Take care, and stay healthy!
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This blog is written by a mom of four children who also happens to be a pediatrician. Dr. Sandy will provide advice, tips, and empathy. She has many years of experience in pediatrics, works with parents every day, and manages to find time to play with her kids, too!
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