According to CDC (Centers of Diseases Control and Prevention), Children younger than 5 years old–especially those younger than 2– are at high risk of developing serious flu-related complications. A flu vaccine offers the best defense against flu and its potentially serious consequences and can also reduce the spread of flu to others.
CDC also suggests that getting a flu vaccine during 2020-2021 is more important than ever. The experts in CDC recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. Although getting a flu shot does not protect human from COVID-19, it can reduce the risk of flu illness, hospitalization and death.
Getting a flu shot is an important step to not only protect you and your child(ren) but also other families and even to protect the community. CDC listed two types of flu shots for children.
Injectable influenza vaccine (IIV):
This type of vaccine is given as an injection (with a needle) and is approved for use in people 6 months and older.
Live inactivated influenza vaccine (LAIV):
LAIV is given as a nasal spray and is approved for use in people 2 through 49 years old. However, there are certain people that should avoid taking nasal spray such as children younger than 2 years, pregnant women, adults 50 years and older, people without a spleen, people with cochlear implants (see the full list here).
Besides taking the flu shot, keeping good daily routine, getting more exercise, washing hands regularly and consume various nutritions are keys to enhance the immune system! We hope you all stay healthy during this challenging time!