Children are at increased risk for flu-related complications even though flu viruses cause disease among people of all ages. That’s because they attend schools and daycares – settings that increase the likelihood of disease spread.
Additionally, children under 5 and children of any age with chronic health conditions are at an even greater risk for flu-related complications. Flu-related visits to a doctor, urgent care center or the emergency room are common among school-aged children.
That is why the CDC recommends all children, ages 6 months through 18 years, get a seasonal vaccine annually, and the 2009 H1N1 vaccine this year.
Young children are at risk of the flu, especially those under 6 months because they are too young for flu vaccinations. It is very important that you – a caregivers of those infants – get vaccinated to protect them.
You can also help to keep the children in your care healthy by always reminding them to:
Look here for more flu information for child care providers.
Preventing the Spread of Influenza (the Flu) in Child Care Settings
Seasonal Flu Information for Schools & Child Care Providers
Information on the Flu & Flu Vaccines
Guidance for Child Care Programs, Schools, Colleges and Universities