Why get the vaccine?
Influenza (flu) is a very contagious disease. It is spread by coughing, sneezing, or nasal secretions. Children have the highest rates of infection. Infants, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with certain medical conditions are at higher risk of more severe flu.
Who should get the vaccine?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends flu shots for all children 6 months and older. We, at CMG, especially recommend flu vaccines for children with siblings under 6 months old in the household and for any child with underlying medical issues including:
– Asthma or other chronic lung disease
– Significant heart disease
– Diabetes
– Immunosuppressive disorders or therapy
– Long-term aspirin therapy
– Chronic kidney disease
The vaccine is required by day-cares and pre-schools in Connecticut.
Children between 6 months and 8 years require a booster vaccine, 1 month after their first dose, 1 only
if this is their first season being vaccinated.
Who should NOT get the vaccine?
Children with an anaphylactic egg allergy are NOT to get the flu vaccine in our office. If the reaction,
historically, has not been anaphylaxis, the vaccine may be given, but we require a 30 minute
observation period, in our office, following the vaccine. If you are unsure, please discuss your
concerns with your allergist.
Children who are moderately to severely ill should wait to get their flu vaccine and those with a history
of Guillain-Barre Syndrome should discuss whether or not to get the vaccine with your doctor.
What are the risks?
Mild problems:
– Soreness/redness/swelling where shot was given
– Fever/aches/hoarseness/cough
– If symptoms occur, they will occur shortly after the shot and last 1-2 days.
Severe problems:
– Allergic reaction – including difficulty breathing
How long does it take to work?
It takes about 2 weeks after the vaccine is administered to become protected. The flu vaccine does
not protect against non-flu viruses.
How do you schedule an appointment?
Please call our office at 203-661-2440 for an appointment.
If your child has a check-up scheduled soon, you do not need to make an appointment just for the
vaccine. Your child will get the flu vaccine at the checkup appointment.
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