Get your 2024-2025 FLU VACCINE by HALLOWEEN!
As always, we will be giving flu vaccines at check-ups, sibling check-ups, and by appointment during Flu Vaccine Clinics.
Flu Vaccine Tips:
- Have your child wear a short sleeve T-shirt or tank top. Take off any jackets or sweatshirts before you enter the waiting room. Less hassle and less waiting means less time for your child to worry about getting a shot.
- You know your child best- but most children do well with some advance notice that they are coming in for a shot. A last minute surprise often does not go over well. On the other hand, too much build-up and focus on the shot can also be difficult for some kids. Focus on the feeling of accomplishment they will have once its done!
- Flu Vaccine Clinics are for the flu shot. Sorry - no mist available!
- Can my child get a flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time? Yes. Children ages 6 months and older who are eligible for COVID-19 vaccination can get a COVID-19 vaccine and a flu vaccine at the same visit. HOWEVER, we do not yet have the newest COVID-19 Vaccine (2024-2025 Formula) available. We are currently awaiting the arrival of our supply from the state. At this time, no COVID-19 Vaccines are available in our office. (updated 9/17/24)
Flu Vaccine Clinic Dates Fall 2024 *By Appointment Only*
Call (603) 224-1929 to schedule an appointment for your child!
Tuesday, October 29th from 5:15pm - 6:45 pm
Thursday, November 14th from 5:15pm - 6:45 pm
*Additional individual vaccine appointment are available - call today!
Which flu vaccine should my child get this season (2024-2025)?
Everyone 6 months of age and older should get the flu vaccine each year to update their protection. It is the best way to prevent getting the flu. Safe vaccines are made each year and the best time to get the flu vaccine is before the flu virus starts circulating in your community--in the late summer/early fall or as soon as it is available in your community.
There are two types of influenza vaccines available. The first is what many people call the "flu shot." The second comes as a nasal spray for individuals over 2 years old.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all children 6 months of age and older receive an influenza vaccine, and both types of available flu vaccine (flu shot or nasal spray) can be given according to their age indications, with no preference, for this flu season. You can read more about the AAP recommendations here: "AAP Influenza (Flu) Prevention Recommendations for 2024-25."
Concord Pediatrics currently has the flu shot in stock and a very (very) limited supply of nasal spray. Due to limited production/availability, please do not promise your child that they can get the nasal spray/mist! Flu shots (not mist) will be given at flu vaccine clinics.
What is the flu? And why are pediatricians so worried about it?
Flu is the short term for influenza. It is an illness caused by a respiratory virus (fever, congestion, cough). The flu can spread rapidly through communities, as the virus is passed person to person. Please note this is different (and is more severe) than a viral stomach (vomiting and diarrhea) illness which some people call "the stomach flu."
Flu symptoms include:
- A sudden fever (usually above 101°F or 38.3°C)
- Chills and body shakes
- Headache, body aches, and being a lot more tired than usual
- Sore throat
- Dry, hacking cough
- Stuffy, runny nose
- Some children may throw-up (vomit) and have loose stools (diarrhea).
After the first few days of these symptoms, a sore throat, stuffy nose, and continuing cough become most evident. The flu can last a week or even longer. A child with a common cold usually has only a low-grade fever, a runny nose, and only a small amount of coughing. Children with the flu—or adults, for that matter—usually feel much sicker, achier, and more miserable.
Why do pediatricians worry about the flu?
Pediatricians have all seen children (even previously healthy children) hospitalized with serious complications from the flu. Influenza can lead to:
- Pneumonia: an illness where the lungs get infected and inflamed
- Dehydration: when a child’s body loses too much water and salts
- Worsening of long-term medical problems like heart disease or asthma
- Brain dysfunction such as encephalopathy
- In rare cases, flu complications can lead to death.
How can I prevent the flu?
Getting the flu vaccine each year is the best way to avoid the flu. Safe vaccines are made each year and the best time to get the flu vaccine is before the flu virus starts circulating in your community--in the late summer/early fall or as soon as it is on hand in your community.