Vaccinating children against the flu is “more important than ever” this year, according to the new American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendations for preventing influenza during the 2020-21 flu season.
Today, the problem is that less than half of the country (47%) got a flu shot last year. The CDC normally recommends that 60% to 70% of the country get the influenza inoculation to keep the virus under control, and it’s pushing for 65% compliance this year. The vaccine lowers your risk of complications or dying from the flu, even if you do get sick.
Last flu season, 188 children and teens under 19 died of complications from influenza, according to the CDC. About 80% of children who die are not vaccinated.
Takeaway: get the Flu vaccine for your kids, this year.