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AAP: Every Child Over 6 Months Needs Flu Shot
11 Aug
Summary
- Vaccines reduce child flu deaths by 80%.
- Fewer than half of eligible children were vaccinated last season.
- Vaccination helps prevent hospitalizations and doctor visits.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued updated recommendations, urging all children aged 6 months and older to receive annual flu vaccinations, provided there are no contraindications. This advisory aims to bolster protection against influenza and its severe complications.
Vaccines have been proven safe and effective, reducing the risk of child fatalities from the flu by 80%. Despite this, vaccination rates remain low, with fewer than half of children aged 6 months to 17 years receiving the shot during the last flu season. This trend mirrors the season before, highlighting a need for increased awareness and uptake.
The AAP's guidance fills a gap left by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which also recommends annual vaccination for individuals 6 months and older to protect against flu and reduce community spread. Historically, approximately 85% of child flu deaths occur among unvaccinated individuals.
Flu vaccines are expected to be covered by commercial insurance and the federal Vaccines for Children program. Pregnant women are also advised to get vaccinated to protect themselves and their infants. For children with severe flu illness, hospitalization, or high-risk factors, antiviral drugs like Xofluza are recommended, with its generic availability expected to improve accessibility.
