Which flu vaccine should children get?

Published: Sunday, September 21, 2025 at 7:59 am

Flu Season Approaches: Vaccination is Key for Children

As the 2024-2025 flu season looms, health experts are urging parents to prioritize influenza vaccination for their children. The previous season saw a record number of pediatric hospitalizations and over 260 deaths in the United States, highlighting the severity of the flu, even among healthy children.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends annual flu vaccination for all children aged six months and older. This is crucial because influenza viruses evolve yearly, and vaccination provides the best defense against infection. Two types of vaccines are available: the traditional flu shot and a nasal spray. Both protect against three different influenza viruses.

Parents should consult their pediatrician about the appropriate vaccine for their child, as any licensed vaccine suitable for their age and health status is recommended. Vaccination should not be delayed to obtain a specific product. The flu vaccine can be administered alongside other recommended immunizations, including the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) immunization. Children who have recovered from COVID-19 should also receive the flu vaccine.

The AAP emphasizes that the flu vaccine is a critical tool in preventing serious illness and complications, such as pneumonia, brain inflammation, and seizures. While the vaccine may not always perfectly match circulating strains, it still offers significant protection. Children who have had an allergic reaction to a previous flu vaccine should consult an allergist.

Vaccination is readily accessible through pediatricians' offices, with many offering convenient options like curbside and drive-through clinics. Parents are encouraged to share vaccination information with their pediatrician to ensure accurate health records. Children aged six months to eight years may require two doses if they are being vaccinated for the first time or have only received one dose previously.

BNN's Perspective:

The data clearly underscores the importance of flu vaccination for children. While individual choices regarding healthcare are always personal, the evidence strongly supports the benefits of vaccination in protecting children from serious illness and preventing the spread of the flu within communities. Parents should proactively discuss vaccination with their pediatricians to ensure their children are protected.

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