This season's vaccine protects against the H1N1 strain of flu, plus one other influenza A strain and one strain of influenza B.

Some children under age 9 will need 2 doses of influenza vaccine this fall.  They are:

     Children who are getting vaccinated for influenza for the first time.

     Children who had only one dose of seasonal influenza vaccine in a prior season.

     Children who did not receive at least one dose of H1N1 vaccine last year.

There are two forms of flu vaccine, shot and nasal spray (FluMist).  The FluMist form of vaccine is for children over two years old who do not have asthma or a history of wheezing.

Flu shots can be given to anyone older than 6 months of age.  There is more flexibility with the shots as they can be given on the same day as other shots or FluMist.  For influenza vaccine, one dose is needed if your child has had a flu shot in a previous winter.  Otherwise, if it is their first season, they need a second dose one month later if younger than 9 years.

Anyone allergic to eggs or neomycin antibiotic should not receive the vaccines and should check with their allergist.  It is important that pregnant women get vaccinated, as well as household contacts of infants under 6 months age.  Call or use internet to schedule your child's vaccination before they catch the flu!  Check our homepage for availablility of the vaccines before you contact us to schedule.