Influenza, also known as the flu, is a virus that can cause mild to serious illness. It is more than just a runny nose and a sore throat. The flu can cause serious complications for babies and children, so it is very important to protect them from it.
The best way to protect your child from the flu is to make sure that your child gets a flu vaccine every year before the flu season starts. The flu season is from October to May. Even though your baby is more likely to get the flu during flu season, he or she can still get it any time of the year.
Babies that are 6 months and older need a flu vaccine every year. There are two ways for your baby to get the flu vaccine, first is through a flu shot. Children who are 6 months and older can get the flu shot yearly. The second way is through flu nasal spray. This is a spray that you can put in your child's nose. Most children that are 2 years or older can get the flu nasal spray.
However, it is not recommended for children who have certain health conditions like heart and lung problems, asthma or a weak immune system that does not protect them well from infection. The flu nasal spray also is not recommended for children who take certain medicines for a long time, like aspirin.
The first time that your baby gets the flu vaccine, he or she gets two doses to give him or her the best protection from the flu. Your child gets at least one dose of the vaccine every year after.
What are the signs and symptoms that your baby has the flu?
They may have the flu if they are tired or sleepy even after taking a nap, they cough a lot, they have a fever, experience chills or body shakes. They may also experience headaches or muscle or body aches, they have a runny nose, a sore throat and they may also vomit. If your child has any of these symptoms of the flu, you need to call your health care provider right away.
How to protect your child from the flu
It is important to get your child vaccinated when he or she is 6 months old. You can also get the flu shot during pregnancy so you can pass on your protection against the flu to your baby. Some studies have shown that this can help protect a child from flu for months after birth.
You can prevent the spread of germs by washing your hands with soap and water before and after caring for your child. You can also use alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Use enough sanitizers that take at least 15 seconds for your hands to dry.
Also, it is important to keep your child away from those who are sick. Do not let people who are sick with the flu or who have symptoms of the flu have contact with your child. You can also ask a provider to give you antivirals to help prevent or treat the flu.
