As a parent, it’s normal to have questions, and even a few worries, about vaccines. The childhood flu vaccine is one of the best ways to keep your little one healthy during flu season, but figuring out when and why to get it can feel like a lot.
Brian Curtis, MD, vice president, chief medical officer for OSF Medical Group, helps break down everything you need to know, from the pros and cons of the flu shot for kids to whether the flu shot is safe for infants.
Why does the childhood flu vaccine matter?
The flu can be far more dangerous for children than a common cold, especially for those under 5 or with chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes. Each year, thousands of children are hospitalized with the flu. Vaccination greatly reduces that risk.
“The flu isn’t just a bad cold,” said Dr. Curtis. “It’s a serious illness that can land even healthy kids in the hospital. The vaccine helps protect your child and also those around them, like grandparents and younger siblings.”
When can kids get a flu shot?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend that all children 6 months and older receive a flu shot each year. That means even babies can start building protection early.
If your child is under 9 years old and receiving the flu shot for the first time, they’ll need two doses, given at least four weeks apart, to build full protection.
After their first flu shot series, your child will just need one flu shot each year in the fall to stay protected. The best time to get the flu shot is early in the season, so September or October.
“Flu viruses change every year, so it’s a good idea to make the flu shot part of your annual fall routine,” Dr. Curtis explained. “It’s a simple step that goes a long way in keeping your child healthy all season.”
Flu Shot for Kids: Pros and Cons
Understanding the pros and cons of the flu shot for kids can help you make an informed, confident decision about whether to get the flu shot for your family.
| Pros | Cons |
| Strong protection against serious illness: The flu shot helps prevent severe complications like pneumonia, ear infections and hospitalizations that can follow the flu, especially in children under 5. | Mild, short-term side effects: Some children may have a sore arm, slight fever or fatigue for a day or two after the shot. These are normal signs the immune system is responding. |
| Helps protect your whole family: When kids are vaccinated, they’re less likely to spread the flu to vulnerable loved ones, including infants too young to be vaccinated and older adults. | Yearly strain changes: Because the flu virus evolves, the vaccine’s effectiveness can vary from year to year. Even so, the flu vaccine still offers valuable protection against severe illness. |
| Prevents missed school and work: Fewer sick days for kids means fewer disruptions for families.
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“Even in years when the flu vaccine isn’t a perfect match, it still makes a big difference,” said Dr. Curtis. “Kids who get vaccinated tend to have milder symptoms and recover faster if they do catch the flu.”
Flu Shot Safety for Babies and Toddlers
The flu shot for babies is both safe and recommended by pediatric experts, including the CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics.
The flu vaccine used for babies and young children is an inactivated vaccine, meaning it does not contain live flu virus and cannot give your child the flu. Instead, it works by helping your baby’s immune system recognize and fight the virus if they are exposed later.
“Babies are at higher risk for flu-related complications like pneumonia or dehydration,” said Dr. Curtis. “The flu shot is the best way to keep infants healthy,”
Common Flu Shot Side Effects for Babies and Kids
Most children experience very little reaction after getting the childhood flu vaccine, but some mild side effects in babies and toddlers are normal. These include soreness at the injection site, mild fever and fussiness that may last for a day or two. These are signs that your child’s immune system is responding and building protection.
“Mild side effects are actually a good thing because they show your child’s body is learning how to fight the virus,” Dr. Curtis said. “If you’re ever unsure, your pediatrician can help you know what’s normal.”
Flu Shot Options for Kids
Depending on age and health history, your child may be eligible for either a flu shot or a nasal spray vaccine:
- Flu shot: Approved for kids 6 months and older. Common side effects include arm soreness or mild fever.
- Nasal spray vaccine: Approved for kids 2 years and older. Not recommended for children with asthma or certain medical conditions.
“For most kids, either option works well,” said Dr. Curtis. “Your pediatrician can help you choose what’s safest and most effective based on your child’s health and comfort level.”
Other Ways to Help Prevent the Flu
The flu vaccine is the best way to protect your family, but you can boost your child’s defenses with a few healthy habits:
- Remind them to wash their hands often with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds or until the ABC song is over.
- Wipe down things they touch a lot, like door handles, light switches and phones.
- Keep them home when they are sick to prevent spreading germs.
- Teach your child to cough into their elbow and to use a tissue for sneezes.
“Flu prevention is a team effort,” Dr. Curtis said. “When families practice good hygiene and get vaccinated, we can help stop the flu from spreading in our schools and communities.”
Talk to Your Pediatrician
Every child is different, and your pediatrician is the best person to guide you on when and how to get the childhood flu vaccine. They can answer your questions about timing, address any concerns about flu shot side effects or safety and advise whether your child should wait if they’re currently sick or recovering.
Your child’s provider can also determine whether they need one or two doses this season and ensure they stay up to date on other important vaccines.
“Your pediatrician knows your child’s health best,” said Dr. Curtis. “Don’t hesitate to ask questions. That’s what we’re here for.”
Last Updated: November 14, 2025