At Lake Forest Pediatric Associates, keeping your child healthy and protected is always our priority. With flu season approaching, one of the most effective ways to safeguard your family is with the annual flu shot. Unfortunately, many families skip it due to common myths. Let’s set the record straight with facts every parent should know.
Myth #1: Healthy Kids Don’t Need the Flu Shot
Fact: Even healthy children can catch the flu—and spread it to others. Vaccination not only protects your child but also helps shield vulnerable family members such as infants, grandparents, or those with weakened immune systems. This is called herd immunity, and it’s an important way to keep our community safe.
Myth #2: The Flu Shot Can Give My Child the Flu
Fact: The flu shot cannot cause the flu. The vaccine contains inactive virus or viral proteins that do not cause illness. While mild side effects like soreness at the injection site or a low fever are possible, they are temporary and far less severe than the actual flu.
Myth #3: It’s Too Late to Get Vaccinated
Fact: It’s never too late in the season. While early fall is ideal, flu viruses often circulate into spring. Getting your child vaccinated at any point during flu season lowers the risk of illness and serious complications.
Myth #4: The Flu Isn’t That Serious for Kids
Fact: The flu can be very serious, even in children. It can lead to complications such as pneumonia and, in some cases, hospitalization. The flu shot significantly reduces both the likelihood of your child getting the flu and the severity of symptoms if they do.
Who Should Get the Flu Shot?
Health experts recommend that everyone 6 months and older receive the flu vaccine each year, unless they have a medical reason not to.
Schedule Your Child’s Flu Shot Today
Protecting your child from the flu is quick, easy, and effective. Our caring team at Lake Forest Pediatric Associates is here to make the process as comfortable as possible for your family.
Call us at (847) 295-1220 to schedule your child’s flu shot today.
Together, let’s keep your family—and our community—healthy this flu season.