Do babies really need flu shots?
In most cases, yes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly flu (influenza) vaccine for all children 6 months and older in the United States — ideally by the end of October. This year the CDC recommends the flu shot or the nasal spray flu vaccine.
Why do babies need 2 flu shots?
Who Needs Two? The first vaccine “primes” the body’s immune system and the second helps the body develop antibodies to the influenza virus. Young children are less likely to have come into contact with the influenza virus so getting two is important to ensure they are protected.
Can the flu vaccine harm my baby?
Getting the flu shot will not harm your unborn baby at any stage of pregnancy. The flu shot is both safe and recommended to protect you and your baby from the virus.
What age can babies get flu shot?
Flu shots can be given to your child 6 months and older. The nasal spray vaccine can be given to people 2 through 49 years of age. However, certain people with underlying medical conditions should not get the nasal spray vaccine.
What happens if baby doesn’t get second flu shot?
The second dose results in the child’s immune system producing enough antibodies so they will be able to fight off influenza when exposed. If your child didn’t receive the second dose, they likely have some protection against the flu, but it may not be enough.
Should babies get flu shots at 6 months?
Doctors recommend that your child get a flu vaccine every year in the fall, starting when he or she is 6 months old. Some children 6 months through 8 years of age may need 2 doses for best protection. CDC recommends a flu vaccine by the end of October, before flu begins spreading in your community.
Does flu vaccine cross the placenta?
The antibodies you develop from a flu shot during pregnancy pass through the placenta — and through breast milk if you’re breastfeeding. These antibodies help protect your baby from the flu after birth.
Should my 6 month old get the flu shot?
Can breastfeeding mom take flu shot?
Yes. Flu vaccination is safe for breastfeeding women and their infants aged 6 months and older. In fact, women who get the flu vaccine while pregnant or breastfeeding develop antibodies against flu that they can share with their infants through their breast milk.
Does the flu shot make babies sleepy?
Common Side Effects There is no side-stepping the fact that flu shots can cause side effects, especially in younger children who may be getting their shots for the first time. Most typically last a day or two, and they are almost always mild. Possible flu shot reactions may include: Fatigue.
Does flu shot transfer breastmilk?