As kids head back to school and daycare, flu season is just around the corner. While it may seem like a routine illness, influenza can be serious—especially for children with developing immune systems or chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes.
Each year, millions of children get sick with the flu, leading to missed school days, hospitalizations, and unfortunately a risk of death. There’s a safe and effective way to reduce those risks, however: the annual flu vaccine.
Flu Season in 2025: What to Expect
Flu activity in the United States typically peaks between October and February, though it can extend into the spring months. Because flu viruses mutate each year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updates the vaccine annually to protect against the strains expected to circulate.
Getting vaccinated every year ensures that your child’s immune system is ready to fight the most likely flu threats of the current season.
Why Children Are Especially Vulnerable
Children are particularly susceptible to flu-related complications for several reasons:
- Their immune systems are still developing.
- They spend time in high-contact environments like schools, daycare centers, and sports teams.
- They may have difficulty recognizing early symptoms or following good hygiene habits like handwashing.
The flu can cause serious complications in kids, including pneumonia, dehydration, and—in some cases—hospitalization or death. Children under 5, and especially under age 2, are at higher risk.
Benefits of the Flu Vaccine
The flu shot is not just about avoiding the flu. It’s about minimizing the impact of a potentially serious illness and helping protect those most at risk.
- Reduces the risk of getting the flu
- Lowers the severity of illness if your child does get sick
- Decreases the chance of hospitalization
- Prevents missed school days and parental work absences
- Protects others—including siblings, grandparents, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals
Flu vaccination is especially important for children with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease, to prevent complications that can be more severe.
Common Questions and Myths About the Flu Shot
Some parents have concerns and uncertainties that make them hesitate to vaccinate. Here are answers to some common questions:
- “Doesn’t the flu shot give you the flu?”
No, it doesn’t. The flu shot contains an inactivated virus and cannot cause influenza. Although mild side effects like a sore arm or low-grade fever are possible, these actually are signs of your immune system at work. - “Why do kids need a flu shot if they’re healthy?”
Even healthy children can become seriously ill from the flu, and they can unknowingly pass it to those at higher risk. - “Does the flu shot really work?”
While no vaccine is 100% effective, the flu shot significantly reduces the chance of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. It also helps limit the spread of flu in schools and communities.
When and Where to Get the Flu Shot
Timing matters. Children should receive the flu shot as soon as it becomes available, ideally by the end of October. This gives the body time (about two weeks) to build immunity before peak flu season begins.
You can get the vaccine:
- At your child’s pediatrician’s office
- During a well-child visit or annual physical
- At local pharmacies, health departments, or flu shot clinics
What to Expect After a Flu Shot
Most children tolerate the flu vaccine well. Common, temporary side effects may include:
- Mild soreness at the injection site
- Low-grade fever
- Fatigue or fussiness in younger children
These symptoms typically resolve within 24-48 hours.
Some children should not receive the flu vaccine, including those with severe allergies to ingredients in the shot. Talk with your pediatrician if you have concerns or if your child has a history of adverse reactions.
A Simple Step to a Safer Flu Season
Flu vaccination is a simple, proven way to protect your child’s health—and the health of those around them. As kids return to classrooms and group activities, the flu shot remains an important tool in preventing avoidable illness and complications.
If you have questions or would like to schedule a flu shot, contact Personal Pediatrics at 407-345-9929 today. We’re here to support your family with safe, evidence-based care.
Sources:
Why Your Child Needs a Flu Shot | Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
Who Needs a Flu Vaccine | Influenza (Flu) | CDC
Flu shots for kids: Does my child need a flu shot? – Mayo Clinic
Which Flu Vaccine Should Children Get? – HealthyChildren.org
