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People who should get
vaccinated each year are:
1. People at high risk for complications from the flu,
including:
o Pregnant women
o People 50 years of age and older
o People of any age with certain chronic medical
conditions
o People who live in nursing homes and other long term
care facilities
2. People who live with or care for those at high risk
for complications from flu, including:
o Household contacts of persons at high risk for
complications for the flu (see above)
o Household contacts and out of home caregivers of
children less than 6 months of age (these children are
too young to be vaccinated)
o Healthcare workers
Should all children be
vaccinated?
The flu shot is not approved for use in children less
than 6 months old. Children under 6 months old can also
get very sick from the flu, but they are too young to
get a flu vaccine. The best way to protect young
children is to make sure that their household members
and their caregivers are vaccinated.
Is the flu vaccine safe?
The risk of the flu vaccine causing serious harm, or
death is extremely small. However, like any medicine, a
vaccine may rarely cause serious problems, such as
severe allergic reactions. Almost all people who get
influenza vaccine have no serious problems from it.
What are the side effects that could occur?
• Soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was
given
• Low-grade fever
What should you do if you
get the flu?
If you have the flu (or a temperature of 100.4º F or
higher):
• Stay home
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing
• Wash your hands frequently
If symptoms get worse seek medical attention. Parents
should contact their health care provider immediately if
they have any concerns about their child’s recovery.
This would include a child having problems breathing,
being too sleepy, or not taking enough fluids.
DO NOT give aspirin to children for treatment of flu
symptoms because of the risk of Reye syndrome, an acute
and potentially life-threatening condition that results
when children take aspirin or aspirin containing
products during certain viral illnesses.
Where can you get more information?
Call your doctor, nurse, local health department, or the
Texas Department of State Health Services,
Immunization Branch at (800) 252-9152.
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Immunizations |
