Dr. Lynn Cates
Specializing in pediatric infectious diseases and childhood immunizations.
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 Ask Dr. Cates
Flu Shots: A Good Idea for Healthy Kids? | | | QUESTION | | | Dear Dr. Cates,
Should I get flu shots for my elementary school age kids? A few years ago the common wisdom seemed to be that healthy kids didn't need flu shots, but in the last few years sentiment seems to have shifted toward giving them. Yet, since there's such a shortage of flu shots, I'd feel like giving them to my kids would deprive someone who really needs the shot of getting it. What would you do?— Kathy in Los Angeles | | | ANSWER |
October 26, 2001 | | | Dear Kathy,
With or without underlying medical problems, influenza can make anyone quite sick. Since the vaccine is safe and effective in healthy children over the age of six months, they can be immunized to help reduce their chances of getting the flu.
It's kind of you to think about people who might need the shots more than your own healthy children. You're right that there will be some delays in delivering the vaccine this year, and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has recommended that healthcare workers and people at high risk for complications associated with influenza be immunized first. The same amount of vaccine as last year eventually will be made available, just later in the season than usual.— by Lynn Cates, M.D., F.A.A.P. |
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