KING 5's Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson talks about the importance of getting your child immunized.
Who needs flu shots the most?
- Children between 6 and 18 years of age
- Children with asthma, diabetes or neurologic conditions
- Pregnant moms & families with infants
Flu shot science
- Flu shots have 3 strains: 2 Influenza A & 1 Influenza B
- Flu shots are an "annual shot" to protect us as the virus changes
- Over 100 countries test flu strains year round to predict what strains are needed
- For those between 2 and 49 years, a nasal flu spray is available
What Parents Can Do
- It's not too early. Go for flu shots now!
- Some children will need 2 doses (1 month apart) if under age 9
- 10-40% of children get influenza each season-- so stay home when ill
- Pregnant moms and parents to infants should get shots to protect their babies
Related links
- Flu shot information from CDC
- How experts determine the strains for flu shot each year
- How to find a flu shot near your home
- Children and influenza--"Every Year Is An Influenza Pandemic For Children"
More about Dr. Swanson: Facebook | Twitter: @SeattleMamaDoc | Read Her Blog
