A flu shot for kids is one of the simplest ways to protect children through the cold-weather months. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu vaccine every season, with rare exceptions. September and October are generally the best months to get it, and the CDC suggests getting everyone in the family vaccinated by the end of October. This guide covers who needs a flu shot, when to get it, why some children need two doses, and what to expect afterward.
Who needs a flu shot?
Nearly everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every year. That includes healthy kids, not just those with medical conditions. Babies younger than 6 months are too young for a flu shot, so the best way to protect them is for everyone around them, including parents, siblings and caregivers, to be vaccinated.
The CDC’s guidance on who needs a flu vaccine states that “everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every season with rare exceptions.” Those exceptions are uncommon, such as a severe allergic reaction to a previous flu vaccine. If your child has had a reaction before, talk with your pediatrician before the next dose.
Vaccination is especially important for children who have a higher risk of serious flu complications, including kids with asthma, diabetes or other chronic health conditions. Your pediatrician can help you understand your child’s risk.
Why do kids need a flu shot every year?
Flu viruses change from season to season, and protection from a vaccine fades over time. Each year’s vaccine is updated to match the viruses expected to spread that season. Getting a new flu shot every fall gives your child the best protection for the months ahead.
That’s why last year’s flu shot doesn’t carry over. Even if your child was vaccinated last fall, they need a new dose this season.
When is the best time to get a flu shot?
Early fall is the best time. The CDC notes that September and October are generally good times to be vaccinated, and ideally everyone should be vaccinated by the end of October. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to build protection, so getting the shot before flu starts spreading widely helps your child stay protected through the season.
If you miss the fall window, it’s not too late. Flu can circulate well into winter and early spring, and a flu shot later in the season still offers protection. Ask about it at your child’s next visit.
For busy families, it often helps to pair the flu shot with another appointment. Many parents schedule it during a fall well-child visit or a sports physical, so it’s one trip instead of two.
Why do some children need two doses?
Some children need two doses of flu vaccine in the same season, given at least four weeks apart. This usually applies to younger children getting a flu vaccine for the first time, or who haven’t had enough doses in past seasons. Because the second dose must wait at least four weeks, the CDC recommends giving the first dose as soon as vaccine is available.
If your child needs two doses, plan the first shot early in the fall. That way, the second dose can be given in time for full protection before flu season peaks. Your pediatrician will look at your child’s vaccine history and tell you whether one or two doses are needed this year.
Shot or nasal spray: which is right for my child?
Most children get the flu vaccine as a shot, but a nasal spray is another option for some kids. The CDC notes that for many people ages 2 through 49, the nasal spray flu vaccine is an option. Your pediatrician will recommend the right choice based on your child’s age and health.
The nasal spray isn’t recommended for everyone. Children with certain health conditions, including some with asthma or a weakened immune system, may need the shot instead. Ask during the visit which form is best for your child.
What side effects should I expect?
Most side effects from a flu shot are mild and go away within a day or two. Common ones include a sore, red or swollen spot where the shot was given, a low fever, tiredness or mild aches. These are signs the body is building protection, and they’re much milder than the flu itself.
Some ways to help your child feel more comfortable:
- Before the shot: talk honestly about what to expect. A quick pinch is easier when it isn’t a surprise.
- During the shot: let younger kids hold a favorite toy, or sit on your lap.
- After the shot: move the arm gently, offer fluids and rest, and ask your pediatrician about pain relievers if your child is uncomfortable.
Call your pediatrician if your child has a high fever, symptoms that last longer than a couple of days, or anything that worries you. Serious allergic reactions are rare, but call 911 right away for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or hives soon after a vaccine.
Is it the flu or a cold?
Flu tends to come on suddenly, with fever, body aches, chills and exhaustion. A cold usually starts slowly and is milder, with a runny nose and sneezing. Because flu can lead to complications, it’s worth calling your pediatrician if your child seems very sick.
For help telling common illnesses apart, read our guide to cold, flu or COVID symptoms in kids. If your child needs to be seen, same-day and walk-in visits are available.
How can Utah families find their child’s vaccine records?
Utah families can look up immunization records through the Utah Statewide Immunization Information System (USIIS), or with the Docket app. The Utah Department of Health and Human Services’ Immunize Utah site describes USIIS as a confidential, web-based system that holds immunization histories for many Utah residents.
Having your child’s records on hand is useful for school, sports and child care forms. It also helps your pediatrician see which vaccines your child has had, including past flu shots, to decide whether one or two doses are needed this year.
Where can my child get a flu shot?
Your child can get a flu shot at a well-child visit, at a scheduled vaccine appointment, or during walk-in hours. Getting it from your child’s pediatrician keeps all of their records in one place and makes it easy to check whether a second dose is needed.
At Heber Valley Pediatrics, flu shots are available alongside other childhood vaccines. Walk-in hours are Monday through Thursday, 4 to 6 PM, excluding holidays. The practice is accepting new patients and accepts most major insurance plans.
Ready for flu season?
Flu shots are available at Heber Valley Pediatrics during well-child visits, vaccine appointments and walk-in hours, Monday through Thursday, 4 to 6 PM. Learn more about the vaccines we offer for children and teens.