The 2016 flu season is upon us and those who wish to vaccinate their children are advised to do so as soon as possible. The current flu vaccines provide protection approximately 2 weeks after they are given and the mist protection lasts from 9-13 months and the shot for 6-9 months. Growing Up Pediatrics will continue to have both vaccines, the flumist and the flu shot (injectable form). Patients may receive the vaccine at any well child check up or during scheduled nurse visits during the week. If one child is coming in for a sick or well child check up and siblings are present, please advise the front office staff during check in if you would like the siblings to receive a flu vaccine while they are in the office.
The Center for Disease Control and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that all children beginning at 6 months of age receive an annual flu vaccine. Children between the ages of 6 months and 8 years will receive two vaccines one month apart for the first season they receive a flu vaccine. After the initial season, children then receive only one vaccine a season. Children who are 2 years of age and older and are healthy may be eligible to receive the flumist, an intranasal vaccine. Please feel free to ask GUP’s providers or nurses if you have any questions regarding the flu vaccine. You may also visit healthychildren.org for further information.