ABC Pediatrics Fresno Seasonal Flu Vaccination*

Protect yourself and your family. Get a flu shot.

The seasonal flu is more serious than the common cold and is easily transmitted to others.

Everyone should get a flu shot every year. It can help protect you from getting sick and keep you from spreading the flu to others – especially those at higher risk during flu season, such as pregnant women, the elderly, and people with ongoing health conditions.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all children 6 months and older and every adult get vaccinated against the flu.

Flu shots will be available throughout the flu season. For more information about preventing or treating the flu, visit our website.

* The 2020-2021 vaccination season begins in September.

GET THE FACTS!

A. INJECTION VACCINE (Flu Shot)

1) Will not give you the flu.

2) For people 6 months and older, including those with chronic conditions or who have a weakened immune system due to chemotherapy or other conditions

3) An inactivated (dead) vaccine helps boost the immune system into producing vaccine antibodies

4) Highly effective

5) Provides protection in one way: a) Makes systemic (body) antibodies in the bloodstream

6) Mild reactions may include soreness, redness and swelling where shot is given. Children are more likely to experience fever or muscle aches.

B. Flu Shot Common Side Effects and Self Care

Children and adolescents may experience mild reactions:

> Soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was given

> Fever or body aches

> Children are more likely to experience aches or fever because they have not had much exposure to flu viruses

> Self-care: 1) Ice to injection site if pain, redness or swelling 2) Over the counter analgesics for pain, fever 3) If these problems occur, they usually begin soon after the shot and last 1 to 2 days.

C. Flu Vaccine Reminders

> Symptoms usually do not last long and go away on their own

> Contact Dr. Shahinfar if experiencing an allergic reaction that includes a rash

> Seek immediate medical attention if: shortness of breath or swelling of the lips or tongue

For more information to help you prepare for flu season, call us.