Influenza (Flu) Vaccine (1331)
Key points below
Why get the flu vaccine?
The American Academy of Pediatrics and the providers at Children’s Wisconsin strongly recommend all children 6 months or older get the flu vaccine each year. A flu vaccine helps keep your child from getting sick with the flu. Flu virus can be very dangerous. Each year, about 20 to 50,000 children in the United States get so sick from the flu virus and need to stay in the hospital. Almost 200 children die from the flu virus each year in the United States.
We know many parents have questions about flu vaccines. At Children’s Wisconsin, we are here to help you make the decision that is best for your family.
How can I get my child vaccinated?
A flu vaccine takes just a few minutes.
- Most of our clinics can give flu vaccines. It is easy to make an appointment. Visit this webpage to find a time and place that works best.
- Most of our clinics can offer the flu vaccine during your visit. Contact your provider to ask if you can get a flu vaccine at your next appointment.
Is the vaccine safe?
Yes. It has been tested for over 30 years. The most common side effects are fever, sore arm, and rash.Will the vaccine give my child the flu?
You cannot get the flu from the flu vaccine. The vaccine uses a dead version of the flu virus.Can my child still catch the flu?
Flu vaccine is not perfect. Your child may still get the flu, but the flu vaccine will help kids from getting so sick that they need be in the hospital.Is my child at high risk to get the flu?
Children under 2 years old and any child with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, sickle cell disease, obesity, and other medical conditions are high risk for a serious complication like staying in the hospital or dying from the flu.How many doses does my child need?
Most kids only need one vaccine each year; however,
Your child will need a second dose of vaccine one month after their first dose if:
- They are under 8 years old and
- This is the first time your child has had the flu vaccine.
In younger children, the second dose helps their body to better fight the flu. It also helps the vaccine to last longer.