It’s the season of runny noses, coughs, and colds. You’ve seen so many reminders to schedule your flu shot, let alone one for your kids, but you can’t help but wonder if they actually need one. And COVID is even more confusing.
We know there’s lots of mixed messages online today. That’s why we asked Dr. Amanda Furr, parent, board-certified pediatrician, and Zarminali Pediatrics’ chief medical officer, to weigh in on some of the most common questions and concerns.
The recommends that every child 6 months or older get a flu shot every year, unless there’s a medical reason your child’s pediatrician discussed with you.
It’s recommended every year, because the flu virus changes a bit every year. The vaccine can be given as a shot or through a mist—though children have to be 2 years or older for the mist. Either version will protect your child.
“If your child is really hesitant and scared of needles, mist is an option,” Dr. Furr says. “Both the flu mist and injectable flu vaccine protect against severe illness.”
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children age 6-24 months get the COVID vaccine. Any child over the age of 2 years who has an additional health concern should also get the vaccine.
Not sure how that applies to your family? Dr. Furr encourages parents to talk with their child’s pediatrician.
“We recommend the vaccine for children ages 6–24-month and any child with health concerns because they’re the most vulnerable,” she explains. “Even if your child is overall healthy, the COVID vaccine is effective at preventing serious complications from the virus.”
No, neither the flu nor COVID vaccine will make your child sick. Both vaccines are proven to be safe.
As with any medicine, there may be side effects. According to Dr. Furr, the most common ones for any vaccine—including flu and COVID—are pain and swelling wherever a child gets the shot. They may also get a low-grade fever, but most kids “bounce right back to their daily activities,” she says.
Flu is highly contagious—and while it might seem like it’s no different from a cold, the flu causes serious complications and deaths in children every year. And the same is true for COVID. The vaccines protect against those severe illness and complications.
“The human body is super smart, and vaccines are a great complement to help it,” Dr. Furr explains. “By giving children vaccines, we teach their immune systems how to identify the most severe infections. When exposed to the illness, the body recognizes the virus the minute it sees it and begins to fight back before it gets overwhelmed.”
Vaccines are especially important for young children and the elderly, because they are most at risk for the severe complications. Babies can’t get the flu or COVID vaccine until they’re 6 months old, so they rely on protection from others.
“While your 12-year-old might be healthy, their younger sibling may be at risk,” Dr. Furr says. “Think about your own risk factors, but also those around you, like grandparents.”
Dr. Furr recommends kids get the vaccines as soon as they’re available, noting that flu season usually peaks between December and February.
“It’s especially important to get it done before the holiday when friend and family gather. Getting them before you’re traveling can also help protect you when exposed to large crowds.”
If your child is under 8 years old and it’s their first time getting a flu shot, they will need two doses for the most effective protection. Dr. Furr says children in that age group should get the first dose as early as possible, so they can get the second dose before flu season peaks.
And once they’ve had the shot, they’re protected for all of flu season.
“You don’t have to worry about getting it too early,” Dr. Furr reassures. “You’re protected all of flu season; it’s not going to wear off.”
Dr. Furr’s number one message for parents who aren’t sure about giving their child a flu or COVID shot? The vaccines are safe, and they’re effective.
“We all want to make the best decisions possible for our children,” she shares. “You’re never going to be able to prevent your child from getting every illness. But for me, the patients I take care of, and my own children, the vaccines are very effective in taking care of the worst of the worst.
There’s nothing more important in my world than my four boys, and I choose it for them. The benefits far outweigh the risks—and I can’t give a better recommendation than that.”
Both the flu and COVID shot can be given during a regular visit with your child’s pediatrician. So, if they already have an upcoming appointment, just let the office know that you’d like your child to get the flu or COVID vaccine.
No upcoming appointment? No problem. You can also book a short, separate visit with our Nurse Scheduling option specifically for the flu or COVID vaccine.