The flu vaccine and kids: 12 things you need to know
It’s more important than ever to make sure your family has the best protection possible against the upcoming flu season amid COVID-19.
And if you haven’t received it already, you’re probably thinking about getting the flu shot soon.
Here are 12 things you need to know about the 2020 flu vaccine.
1. As the Mayo Clinic explains, “Influenza is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system – your nose, throat and lungs. Influenza is commonly called the flu.”
2. According to the Australian Department of Health, “Annual vaccination is the most important measure to prevent influenza and its complications and is recommended for all people aged six months and over.”
3. The good news is that children aged between six months and five years are now eligible for free influenza vaccines under the National Immunisation Program, as they are considered to be at a higher risk of severe influenza infections.
4. Other people eligible for a free vaccine include:
- pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
- people aged 65 years and over
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged six months and over
- people aged six months and over with medical conditions that mean they have a higher risk of flu complications.
5. The first year your child receives the influenza vaccine, they will require two doses given at least four weeks apart. However, one dose is better than none.
6. Children nine years and over are recommended to have a single annual dose of influenza vaccine.
7. You can expect to pay around $20 for the flu vaccine if you don’t qualify for a government-funded vaccine.
8. All members of your family should be vaccinated to help reduce the risk of your children being exposed to influenza.
9. Time your vaccine for maximum protection during peak flu season. Queensland Health says, “Vaccinating from April provides protection before the peak season takes place. While protection is generally expected to last for the whole season, the best protection against influenza occurs within the first 3 to 4 months following vaccination.”
10. The flu vaccine does not give you the flu. Speaking to ABC’s Hack, Dr Vicki Sheperd, NSW Health’s Director of Communicable Diseases, says there is no chance it can give you the flu. “The flu vaccines we have in Australia don’t have any live virus in them,” she says.
11. The flu shot does not protect against COVID‐19. The World Health Organization says they “are coordinating efforts to develop vaccines and medicines to prevent and treat COVID-19 and will continue to provide updated information as soon research results become available.”
12. It’s crucial to avoid getting the flu and COVID-19 at the same time. The Department of Health website says, “Getting the flu and COVID-19 at the same time can make you very ill.”
If you are concerned about your child’s health or have any questions about the 2020 flu vaccine, make an appointment with your doctor.
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