What is the flu?

The flu (influenza) is a highly contagious respiratory illness that affects the nose, throat and lungs. It can range from mild to fatal. Most people may get a mild form of the flu and may not think it is time for the flu shot because they are not worried.

However, the flu can be deadly for some. Even if you are not worried about getting overly sick, someone you are close too may be at a higher risk. Getting the flu shot can help keep them safe too.

Why is the flu dangerous?

The flu is unpredictable. Children, especially those with asthma, heart conditions or diabetes, pregnant woman, seniors, and those with existing health problems are at greater risk of developing serious complications.

Those complications include:

• bacterial pneumonia
• sinus or ear infections
• dehydration
• worsening of asthma, diabetes and heart conditions

These complications can be fatal, especially in younger children, or cause long-term health challenges. That is why it is time for the flu shot early in the fall or whenever your child’s pediatrician recommends it to keep them in good health.

Who should get vaccinated in Chicago?

Since 2010, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended that everyone over the age of 6 months get a flu vaccine. The flu vaccine is safe for everyone in that age range.

Babies younger than 6 months old cannot get the vaccine themselves, but are at much higher risk of contracting the flu. Make sure you, your older children, any visitors and any caretakers get the flu vaccine to provide herd immunity for your newborn.

Mothers who are pregnant or breastfeeding could provide some immunity to their children if they choose to get the flu shot. When it is time to get the flu shot for these mothers, they can share the benefits with their babies, protecting those who are too young to get the vaccine.

Make an appointment for the flu shot in Chicago!

When it is time to get the flue shot, you want to make sure that you are proactive and get it done. Your children are at the highest risk and setting them up for an appointment can ensure that they will not get sick. Our team at Alzein Pediatrics can help get the flu shot done for you in no time.

Call Alzein Pediatrics at 708-424-7600 or visit us when it is time for the flu shot. We can take care of all your children (and you!) quickly and easily. Whether you need an updated flu shot for the year or you are looking to help handle some of the other medical conditions for your children, our team is here to help.

We’ve already had our flu shot this year in Chicago!

That’s wonderful! We are happy you have protected your family and yourself. To keep your child’s medical records up to date, please call our office at 708-424-7600 and let us know when and where the vaccine was administered. This will ensure that nothing is missed and that your child is getting the very best help for their overall health.

Additional questions about the flu or your child’s health?

Call our office at 708-424-7600 and we’ll be happy to help. You can also follow us on Facebook as we post helpful information about the flu and other health care issues that affect your family.