Speaking of vaccinations, Tuesday, December 9th is Children's Flu Vaccination Day, a reminder to parents that vaccinating their children and those who live with or care for them is the first and most important step in protecting against this serious disease, which can lead to hospitalization—and worse.
Sutter Express Care is a super convenient and no-brainer way to check this off your to-do list if you haven't already. There's a location near you (located in Rite Aids around town), and flu shots are only $25 (with insurance you don't pay anything—they will bill them for you).
Each year in the United States, an average of 20,000 children younger than five are hospitalized because of flu-related complications. As many as one in five children younger than five may have to see the doctor, visit the ER or other urgent care for treatment for flu. And sadly, about 100 children on average die from this serious disease each year.
CDC recommends that children aged six months up to their 19th birthday get vaccinated against the flu. CDC also recommends that close contacts (family members, caregivers, etc.) of children younger than five get a flu vaccine each year to provide added protection to this high risk group. Additionally, people who live with or have other close contact with a child or children of any age with a chronic health problem (asthma, diabetes, etc.) should get a flu vaccine.
Children under six months are too young to receive the flu vaccine, but they are among the most vulnerable to develop serious, even fatal, complications from flu. This makes vaccination of their close contact especially critical. Children ages six months up to nine years who are getting a flu vaccine for the first time need two doses of vaccine the first year (the second dose should be given 28 or more days after the first dose).
Learn more and find one near you at Sutter Express Care
Find a coupon in the latest issue of Kidaround for a $5 Rite Aid gift card with your visit, too!
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