When Is the Best Time to Schedule My Child's Annual Flu Shot?

That time of year is upon us once more. Kids are back in school and hanging out in day care centers, so it’s only a matter of time until one of yours gets sick with something. 

You can’t completely protect your kids from many infectious diseases, but we have vaccines for some, like the flu, to reduce your child's risk of infection. 

And the best time for vaccination is fast approaching. 

Here, Drs. Tina Floy and Trinidad Rojas at Wellness Pediatrics in Fairfax, Virginia, walk through a few ins and outs of flu vaccines so your whole family can get the most from their protection. 

ߴTis the season for flu vaccinations

Americans see flu season peak in the fall and winter months. During each flu session, anywhere from 3-11% of the population becomes infected, and thousands are hospitalized. 

That’s why we prioritize helping you and your family keep each other safe. The best time to get a flu shot is September and October. This gives your body enough time to recognize and react to the virus and build up an army of antibodies by the time temperatures dip and flu cases spike. 

If you get vaccinated too early, the vaccine's effectiveness may wear off by the time you need it. On the flip side, it’s never too late to get a flu shot. Even later in the flu season, vaccination can enhance your immunity and reduce your risk of spreading the illness. 

Children between 6 months and 8 years may need two doses of the vaccine given four weeks apart. They should have their first dose as early as possible when the vaccine is first available. 

The numbers behind the shot

The flu vaccine is not perfect, and its effectiveness fluctuates every year. Researchers develop the vaccine months in advance, attempting to formulate it to protect against that year’s virus strains. 

But even if the flu shot doesn’t bat a thousand, it can still reduce the risk of flu by 40-60%. And the flu shot tends to help you get through the flu with milder symptoms. 

The ideal candidate

Your children aren’t the only ones who need the flu shot — everyone needs it. One sick kid can infect an entire family, and you may not realize that you’re still contagious even after you’ve recovered. That puts your crew and those outside of your household at risk. 

There are only a few exceptions to the rule. Babies under 6 months old and anyone with life-threatening allergies to the flu vaccine shouldn’t get it. 

Pregnant women and older individuals should feel safe getting the flu vaccine. In fact, seniors may receive a higher dosage of the vaccine. Pregnant mothers have the added benefit of transferring their immunity to their babies. 

Getting sick while vaccinated

Contracting the flu is a real possibility even if you and your family have been vaccinated. If you suspect they’re sick, your first step is to keep them home from school and activities. 

Keep them hydrated and comfortable while you call our office for more guidance. We may recommend antiviral drugs like Tamiflu to help your child overcome the illness faster. 

A visit to the ER may be necessary if your child has severe symptoms, but vaccinated children usually have fewer and more mild symptoms. 

Going beyond the shot

The flu shot isn’t the only way to keep you and your family from getting sick. We recommend implementing a few healthy habits to avoid the flu, such as:

• Prioritizing frequent hand-washing
• Avoiding sick people
• Following respiratory etiquette

Your family should also take steps to bolster their immune systems by eating well, getting enough sleep, and staying hydrated. 

Flu season is a stressful time for families. Make sure yours is protected in time. If your family is due for a round of flu shots, call us at 571-350-0953 or use our online booking tool to get on our schedule today.