A Parent’s Guide: Understanding the Influenza Vaccine
Influenza is a contagious respiratory infection that can cause serious complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis.
Annual vaccination is recommended because flu viruses change over time and immunity decreases after 6–12 months.
The best time to get vaccinated is before the flu season, typically during March–May and October–November.
High-risk groups include young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with obesity, chronic diseases, and children with developmental or neurological disorders.
Two vaccine options are available: injectable (inactivated) and intranasal (live attenuated) vaccines.
Children under 9 years old receiving their first flu vaccine need two doses, one month apart, followed by annual vaccination.
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