Influenza (the flu) is a contagious disease. It is caused by the influenza virus and can be spread through coughing, sneezing or nasal secretions. Anyone can “catch” the flu, but children and the elderly are at higher risk for developing a more severe case and side effects.

For most people, symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, headache, chills, muscle aches and fatigue. For some, influenza can lead to pneumonia, endangering people with heart or breathing conditions. It can cause high fever, diarrhea and seizures in children. The flu virus is estimated to cause hospitalization for more than 20,000 children each year in the U.S.

The single best way to protect your child from influenza is to have your child receive the flu vaccine each year.

When is the best time to get children vaccinated?
The best time to get vaccinated is between September and November. Because flu viruses change every year, the vaccine is changed yearly. It is important to have your child vaccinated annually. Children 6 months to 9 years of age getting the flu vaccine for the first time will need two doses of vaccine in the first year they are vaccinated.

Who should get the flu vaccine?
Children 6 months or older are recommended to receive the vaccine. Family members of children younger than 6 months also should receive the vaccine. Children ages 6 months to 4 years and those with chronic medical problems, such as heart disease, sickle cell anemia, diabetes, asthma or other lung problems, are at greatest risk for more serious disease and consequences.

Who should not receive the vaccine?
Anyone who is allergic to eggs should not receive the vaccine.

What kinds of flu vaccines are there?
There are two types of vaccines that protect against the flu. The flu shot is given with a needle, usually in the arm. The nasal spray flu vaccine, FluMist®, is inhaled through the nose.

What is the difference in the two vaccines?
The flu shot is inactive, which means that it contains killed flu virus. The shot is approved for people 6 months or older, including those with chronic medical conditions. FluMist® nasal spray flu vaccine contains weakened live viruses. The nasal spray currently is approved for people 2 to 49 years old. Children and adults with respiratory, pulmonary or cardiovascular conditions or those who are pregnant may not receive the FluMist® vaccine. FluMist® nasal spray may offer an advantage of better protection when the flu strain in the community does not match what is in the vaccine. Contact your pediatrician or family practice physician to make your child’s appointment.

FAST FACT: About two weeks after vaccination, antibodies that provide protection against influenza virus infection develop in the body.

Michelle Linsmeier, MD, FAAP, is a pediatrician at Children’s Medical Group-Bayshore Pediatrics.