MADERA, Calif. — With flu season looming, doctors at Valley Children’s Hospital are reminding parents that a quick flu shot could be the difference between a healthy holiday season and a hospital stay.
“We really recommend getting the flu shot, and it’s mostly to prevent the serious complications of the flu that end up with these kids in the hospital,” said Dr. Sara Horan, a pediatric resident with Valley Children’s.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced last month that the 2024-2025 influenza season had the highest number of pediatric deaths reported since 2004, outside of a pandemic year in 2009-2010.
Underlying health issues were present in almost 50% of the flu-related deaths, and 89% of those who died were not fully vaccinated, according to the CDC.
“They can get pneumonia and even get infections in their brain, so that’s what we’re trying to prevent,” Dr. Horan said.
This year, the team at Valley Children’s is encouraging families to get their children vaccinated for the flu before Halloween.
“We recommend getting the flu shot as soon as it’s available in your pediatrician’s office, but we’re really pushing this year for ‘flu before boo,'” Dr. Horan said.
With the holiday season fast approaching, Dr. Horan says vaccination by Halloween gives children’s immune systems time to build up protection before flu season hits its peak.
“We really want our kids protected before the illnesses start spreading. Our goal is to give our body time to mount a response to the vaccine, and that way, we are protected when all the coughing and sneezing starts.”
To schedule a flu shot, Dr. Horan recommends calling your pediatrician’s office directly. They can guide you through the process and let you know when vaccines are available.
Additionally, Dr. Horan stresses the importance of everyday preventive measures like frequent hand washing and covering coughs and sneezes.
“That way, they’re all really well protected to enjoy the holidays,” Dr. Horan said.
For more tips from Valley Children’s on keeping your kids safe and healthy this flu season, click here.
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