Raise your hand if one or more of your children has already been sick since the start of the school year! This time of year is one of the most common times for children to come down with any sort of infection, and we would bet at least one illness has made its way through your household.

While a minor cold may not be much of a concern, a flu outbreak in your house could knock down your entire family for a few days while everyone cycles through the sickness and recovery.

Our AFC Urgent Care Tyvola Road team wants everyone to stay healthy this year, which is why we recommend that everyone get their flu shot now! Read on to learn more about this year’s flu vaccine.

When Should You Get the Flu Shot?

The flu shot is typically available in the early fall, and it is recommended that everyone should get their shot early in the season. September or October is a great time to get it because the shot needs about two weeks in your body in order to build those important antibodies against the virus.

The flu shot is a little bit different year to year, which is why an annual flu shot is important. While you and your family may have gotten last year’s strain and have immunity, you are probably not immune to this year’s strain. The flu shot is reformulated each year to provide the best protection against the year’s most common strains.

Reasons Why the Annual Flu Shot Matters

• It reduces risk of death or serious illness due to the flu.
• It can reduce the number of sick days if they do get the flu.
• It protects others who cannot get the vaccine.
• It can keep any symptoms mild.

Is the Flu Dangerous for Kids?

It certainly can be. Children and infants naturally have smaller breathing passages and underdeveloped immune systems. Any sort of inflammation from an infection in their airways can cause significant breathing problems and respiratory distress. Children can also just have a harder time overcoming the illness because their immune systems aren’t as well equipped to handle illness as most adults.

The best way to prevent serious illness in your child is to get the flu vaccine! The vaccine is reliable at preventing illness entirely, but it will also help manage any symptoms if your child does experience a breakthrough infection. It will shorten the duration and will keep any symptoms mild. Anyone 6 months and older is eligible, so come by and get your entire family vaccinated today.

How to Keep Your Family Healthy This Year

• Get your annual flu shots.
• Teach proper handwashing.
• Avoid others if they are sick.
• Eat well and stay hydrated.
• Make sleep a priority for everyone.

We want you to stay healthy! When you are ready for your annual flu shot, come see us at AFC Urgent Care Tyvola Road.