As the flu season fast approaches, children will have to roll up their sleeves to protect themselves.
The American Academy of Pediatrics updated its annual flu season guidelines, withdrawing its recommendation of the child-friendly FluMist for this year.
Norton Pediatrician Dr. Amy Garlove said last year, the FluMist only provided 3% protectiveness from people who got the nasal mist, but the injectable flu vaccine protected patients 63% of the time.
The FluMist was the only ouch-free alternative for children, and has accounted for about a third of pediatric flu vaccinations in recent years. Doctors are hoping parents will realize that the tiny bit of pain comes with a lot of gain.
Getting the flu can be very dangerous.
Dr. Garlove advised the best thing to do is be honest with your children and let them know they are getting a shot and it will only hurt for a few seconds.
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests everyone six months or older be vaccinated for this year’s flu season by October.
Source: WAVE
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