childrenfirstpediatricspcma

How the Flu Shot for Kids Helps Them Stay Well

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 19:25:04 GMT

A flu shot for kids is recommended every year for children 6 months and older because influenza viruses change and protection can decrease over time. Yearly vaccination lowers a child’s risk of flu and serious complications, while helping protect siblings, caregivers, classmates, and other vulnerable people.

Children First Pediatrics provides caring, patient-focused pediatric services for families in Rockville, MD , and Silver Spring, MD . This guide explains what parents should know before scheduling a yearly flu vaccine.

Why do kids need a flu shot every year?

Children need a yearly flu shot for two main reasons:

Influenza viruses continually change, so the vaccine is reviewed and updated as needed.
Protection from a previous vaccination can decrease over time.

A flu vaccine from last year is not a substitute for this year’s vaccine. Annual vaccination gives children the best opportunity for protection during the current flu season.

The flu is more than a bad cold. It can cause fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and other symptoms that keep children home from school or activities. In some cases, influenza can lead to complications such as dehydration, pneumonia, or worsening of an existing medical condition.

Vaccination does not guarantee that a child will never get influenza. However, it can reduce the risk of flu and may make illness less severe if infection occurs.

Which children should receive a flu vaccine?

Children 6 months and older should receive a flu vaccine each year unless their healthcare professional recommends otherwise. Parents should discuss vaccination with their child’s pediatrician, especially if the child has a chronic health condition, a history of serious allergic reaction to a vaccine, or other health concerns.

Infants younger than 6 months are too young to receive a flu vaccine. Because they cannot be vaccinated themselves, protecting them includes vaccinating eligible household members and caregivers and reducing exposure to people who are sick.

For questions about routine immunizations, visit the Immunizations resource or contact Children First Pediatrics.

Why are children at risk for flu complications?

Many children recover from influenza without serious problems, but flu can become severe. Young children have developing immune systems, and some children have medical conditions that increase their risk of complications.

Potential complications can include:

Dehydration when fever, vomiting, or poor appetite makes it difficult to drink enough fluids
Pneumonia or other respiratory complications
Worsening asthma or another ongoing health condition
Ear infections or sinus infections
The need for urgent or hospital-based care in severe cases

A child’s age and health history matter when considering flu risk. Parents should promptly contact a healthcare professional if a child has trouble breathing, signs of dehydration, unusual sleepiness, persistent or worsening symptoms, or another concerning change.

The flu vaccine is one part of prevention. Handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, staying home when sick, and avoiding close contact with ill people can also help reduce spread.

Does a flu shot cause the flu?

No. A flu shot does not cause influenza. Some children may feel tired or have mild symptoms after vaccination, but these reactions are not the flu itself.

A child may also become ill with another respiratory virus around the time of vaccination. Because many viruses circulate during fall and winter, getting sick afterward does not necessarily mean the vaccine caused the illness.

The vaccine needs time to build protection. Children can become infected before immunity develops or can encounter a flu strain not fully prevented by vaccination. Even so, vaccination remains an important way to reduce risk.

What are common flu shot side effects?

Most vaccine side effects are mild and temporary. Common reactions may include:

Soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was given
Low-grade fever
Tiredness
Headache
Muscle aches or general fussiness

These effects generally improve on their own. Parents can ask their child’s pediatrician what comfort measures are appropriate. Do not give medicine to a child unless you know the correct product and dose for that child; the Medicine Dosages resource may provide helpful general information.

A serious reaction is uncommon, but parents should seek urgent medical help for signs of a severe allergic reaction or another emergency. When in doubt, call a healthcare professional.

Why do some children under 9 need two doses?

Some children younger than 9 need two flu vaccine doses during their first vaccination season, depending on their previous flu vaccination history. The first dose introduces the immune system to the vaccine, and the second dose helps strengthen the response.

The doses are given at least four weeks apart. Not every child under 9 needs two doses. The recommendation depends on factors such as whether the child has previously received enough seasonal flu vaccine doses.

Parents should not guess the number of doses needed. Ask your pediatrician to review your child’s immunization record and recommend the appropriate schedule. Scheduling early can help leave enough time between doses before flu activity increases.

When should parents schedule a yearly flu vaccine?

Families should schedule vaccination when it becomes available each season and follow their pediatrician’s timing recommendations. Getting vaccinated before flu activity increases can give the body time to develop protection, but vaccination can still be useful later in the season.

If a child needs two doses, early scheduling is especially important because the doses must be separated by at least four weeks. Bring the child’s vaccine records if they are available, and tell the healthcare team about allergies, previous vaccine reactions, or current illness.

Children First Pediatrics serves families in Rockville and Silver Spring. Learn more about our Rockville Office , Silver Spring Office , or available Appointments .

Flu shot myths parents often hear

Myth: A child only needs a flu vaccine once.
Fact: Children 6 months and older generally need flu vaccination every year because viruses change and protection can decrease.

Myth: The flu is just a stronger cold.
Fact: Influenza can cause more intense illness and may lead to complications, particularly for young children or children with certain health conditions.

Myth: Mild soreness means something is wrong.
Fact: Soreness, redness, tiredness, or a low-grade fever can be common, temporary vaccine reactions.

Myth: Every child under 9 needs two doses.
Fact: Some do, but the recommendation depends on previous vaccination history. A pediatrician should review the child’s record.

Frequently asked questions about flu shots for kids

Can a baby younger than 6 months get a flu shot?

No. Children younger than 6 months are too young for a flu vaccine. Protection comes from vaccinating eligible caregivers and household members and limiting exposure to people who are sick.

Can my child get a flu shot while mildly sick?

Ask the child’s pediatrician. The recommendation may depend on the child’s symptoms, fever, health history, and the type of illness. Tell your healthcare team how your child is feeling before vaccination.

How long does flu vaccine protection take?

The body needs time to develop protection after vaccination. Ask your pediatrician about timing, particularly if flu is already circulating or if your child needs two doses.

Does the flu vaccine protect against every winter illness?

No. The flu vaccine is designed to help protect against influenza, not every virus that causes cough, fever, congestion, or stomach symptoms. Other infections can look similar.

Where can parents learn about other pediatric services?

Children First Pediatrics offers a medical home for children and families. Explore our Services , Well Child Visits , and Sick Child Visits to learn more.

Key takeaways for parents

A flu shot for kids is a yearly preventive step for children 6 months and older. It can lower the risk of influenza and serious complications, although no vaccine prevents every infection. Mild soreness, tiredness, or a low-grade fever can occur and usually pass quickly. Some children under 9 need two doses at least four weeks apart, based on their previous vaccination history. Review your child’s records, ask questions about the recommended schedule, and book an appointment with Children First Pediatrics in Rockville or Silver Spring.

5 Answers: Fever in Children When to Worry

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 19:18:12 GMT

Fever in children is generally a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher and is often a helpful sign that the body is fighting an infection. Most fevers can be managed with fluids, rest, and comfort care, but call a pediatrician for any temperature of 100.4°F or higher in a baby younger than 3 months, and seek emergency care for severe symptoms.

What counts as a fever in children?

A fever is usually defined as a body temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher . A child’s temperature may vary depending on the time of day, activity, clothing, and how it is measured. If your child feels warm, use a reliable thermometer and record the temperature, time, and method of measurement.

The number is only one part of the picture. Also consider your child’s age, behavior, breathing, hydration, and other symptoms. A child who is alert, drinking fluids, and resting comfortably may need observation and supportive care. A child who appears seriously ill needs prompt medical attention, even if the temperature is not extremely high.

For additional guidance about illness, visit our Sick Child Visits page or use the Is Your Child Sick?® resource.

Why does a fever help fight infection?

Fever is part of the body’s natural immune response. Raising body temperature can make the environment less comfortable for some germs while supporting the body’s efforts to fight infection. In that sense, fever is a symptom—not usually the illness itself.

The goal of care is not always to make the thermometer show a normal number. The goal is to help your child rest, drink, and remain comfortable while you watch for signs that medical advice is needed.

Comfort care at home

When your child is otherwise doing well, supportive care may include:

Offering frequent fluids or breast milk, as appropriate for your child.
Encouraging rest and quiet activities.
Dressing your child in comfortable, light layers; avoid bundling.
Checking on your child regularly, including breathing, alertness, and hydration.
Providing reassurance, cuddles, and a calm environment.

Do not force food if your child has little appetite. Fluids are especially important because fever and illness can increase the risk of dehydration.

How should parents use fever medicine?

Fever-reducing medicine may help a child feel more comfortable, but it does not treat every cause of fever. Use medicine only as directed by your child’s pediatrician or the product label, and use the measuring device that comes with the medicine.

Dosing must be based on your child’s weight and the specific medicine. Ask us for weight-based dosing guidance before giving medication. Never guess a dose, combine products without checking their ingredients, or give medicine intended for another child.

Our Medicine Dosages resource may also be helpful. If you are uncertain about what to give, how much to give, or when to give it, contact the practice for guidance.

When should I call the pediatrician about a fever?

Call us promptly for a temperature of 100.4°F or higher in any baby younger than 3 months. Young infants need careful evaluation, even when they seem relatively comfortable.

For older children, call the pediatrician when you are concerned about your child’s appearance, behavior, hydration, breathing, or symptoms. You should also contact us if:

Your child is difficult to wake, unusually weak, confused, or not acting normally.
Your child is having trouble breathing or breathing much faster than usual.
Your child is not drinking or has signs of dehydration, such as very little urination, a dry mouth, or no tears.
Your child has a seizure, a stiff neck, a severe headache, or a concerning rash.
Fever is accompanied by significant pain, repeated vomiting, or symptoms that are worsening.

Trust your instincts. Parents often recognize when their child looks or acts different from usual. If you are unsure whether your child needs an appointment, contact our office.

When should a child with fever go to the ER?

Go to the emergency room or call emergency services for an immediate, life-threatening concern. Examples include severe trouble breathing, blue or gray lips or skin, unresponsiveness, a seizure that does not stop, severe dehydration, or a child who cannot be awakened normally.

A serious injury, rapidly worsening condition, or sudden change in consciousness also requires emergency attention. Do not delay emergency care while trying to lower the temperature at home.

For information about urgent options and after-hours support, see our Emergencies , After Hours , and Emergency After Hours Virtual Visit pages. These resources do not replace emergency services when your child may be in immediate danger.

What should I track while my child has a fever?

A short record can help you and your child’s pediatrician understand what is happening. Note:

Temperature, time, and measurement method.
Your child’s age and weight.
Fluids taken and urination.
Medicine name, amount, and time given.
Breathing, alertness, pain, rash, vomiting, and other symptoms.

Avoid repeatedly checking the temperature if your child is sleeping comfortably. Instead, monitor overall condition and check as needed based on symptoms and medical advice.

Frequently asked questions about fever in children

Is every fever dangerous?

No. Fever is commonly part of the immune response to infection. The child’s age, appearance, breathing, hydration, and other symptoms matter. Any temperature of 100.4°F or higher in a baby younger than 3 months requires a prompt call to the pediatrician.

Should I wake my child to give fever medicine?

Ask your pediatrician for individualized advice. Medicine should be used for comfort and given according to weight-based instructions. Do not give an extra dose or use a different product without confirming the correct medicine and amount.

What if my child refuses fluids?

Offer small, frequent amounts and continue watching hydration and urination. If your child cannot keep fluids down, is urinating much less, has a dry mouth, has no tears, or seems unusually sleepy, call the pediatrician promptly. Severe dehydration may require emergency care.

Can a child have a serious illness without a very high fever?

Yes. Temperature alone does not determine how sick a child is. Difficulty breathing, unusual sleepiness, confusion, severe pain, dehydration, seizure, or a rapidly worsening condition should prompt medical attention regardless of the exact temperature.

Where can I get care for a sick child?

Children First Pediatrics provides pediatric services for families in Rockville, MD, and Silver Spring, MD . Learn about our Rockville Office , Silver Spring Office , or Appointments to find the next step.

Key takeaways for parents

Fever in children is usually 100.4°F or higher and often reflects the body’s effort to fight infection. Focus on comfort, fluids, rest, and your child’s overall condition rather than the number alone. Ask us for weight-based medicine dosing, call promptly for a fever of 100.4°F or higher in a baby under 3 months, and seek emergency care for severe breathing problems, unresponsiveness, seizure, serious dehydration, or other life-threatening symptoms. If you are worried, book an appointment with Children First Pediatrics in Rockville or Silver Spring.

COVID and FLU Vaccines

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 14:39:17 GMT

WE HAVE FLU VACCINE NOW AVAILABLE FOR ALL AGES FOR PRIVATE INSURANCE. We hope to have VFC in the next couple of weeks for our patients with no insurance or Medicaid. Covid Vaccine should arrive by September 15th but check back here!

We will have a walk in vaccine clinics on the following dates or you can book appts online:

Both offices: 9am-1pm and 3-4pm September 18, 21 October 16th and November 2nd

Silver Spring only: 9am-1pm and 3-4pm September 16

WE WILL NOT HAVE ANY WEEKEND FLU CLINICS THIS YEAR. PLEASE ATTEND ONE OF THESE WALK IN CLINICS OR SCHEDULE ONLINE FOR A DIFFERENT DATE. THANKS FOR YOUR UNDERSTANDING

Holiday Office Hours

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 14:38:24 GMT

Holidays for 2026 & 2027 where the office is closed (after hour emergent telehealth only):

September 1: Labor Day
November 27: Thanksgiving Day
November 28: Open until Noon
December 5: Closing at 1pm for Staff Appreciation
December 24: Christmas Eve (closing at Noon)
December 25: Christmas Day
December 31: New Years Eve (closing at 2pm)
January 1: New Years Day

Now Offering First Aid/CPR Classes

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 14:37:39 GMT

Parents, Grandparents, Nannies, Caregivers or anyone wanting First Aid/CPR/AED:

Register and learn more:

(open to the public)

April 30, 2025 5-7pm

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1253714296209?aff=oddtdtcreator

May 28, 2025 5-7pm

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/adult-pediatric-first-aidcpraed-registration-1253872499399?aff=oddtdtcreator

Book Appointments Online

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 14:35:06 GMT

You can now book same day sick appts, well visits and Covid/Flu shots online through the portal or through our main website by clicking on the “book appt” button.

Want to make an appt for Monday morning on Sunday night for your sick child and you are already past our telehealth hours? Now you can! *If you don’t see same day sick appts online or the times don’t work please call the office and we will schedule one for you.

Check Your Symptoms

jfinney@officepracticum.com (Jackson Finney) — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 02:08:05 GMT

CLICK HERE to read more on checking your symptoms.

Expecting Parents

jfinney@officepracticum.com (Jackson Finney) — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 02:06:44 GMT

CLICK HERE to see page on expecting parents.

Tour Our Offices

jfinney@officepracticum.com (Jackson Finney) — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 02:04:56 GMT

Take a tour of each of our offices!

Find Help in Your Area

implementation@officepracticum.com (Graham Daugherty) — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 18:53:35 GMT

Find food assistance, help paying bills, and other free or reduced cost programs in your area.

Visit the Find Help web site and enter your zip code to find assistance in your area for:

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Visit FindHelp.org to get started!

Learn more about FindHelp .

childrenfirstpediatricspcma

How the Flu Shot for Kids Helps Them Stay Well

Why do kids need a flu shot every year?

Which children should receive a flu vaccine?

Why are children at risk for flu complications?

Does a flu shot cause the flu?

What are common flu shot side effects?

Why do some children under 9 need two doses?

When should parents schedule a yearly flu vaccine?

Flu shot myths parents often hear

Frequently asked questions about flu shots for kids

Can a baby younger than 6 months get a flu shot?

Can my child get a flu shot while mildly sick?

How long does flu vaccine protection take?

Does the flu vaccine protect against every winter illness?

Where can parents learn about other pediatric services?

Key takeaways for parents

5 Answers: Fever in Children When to Worry

What counts as a fever in children?

Why does a fever help fight infection?

Comfort care at home

How should parents use fever medicine?

When should I call the pediatrician about a fever?

When should a child with fever go to the ER?

What should I track while my child has a fever?

Frequently asked questions about fever in children

Is every fever dangerous?

Should I wake my child to give fever medicine?

What if my child refuses fluids?

Can a child have a serious illness without a very high fever?

Where can I get care for a sick child?

Key takeaways for parents

COVID and FLU Vaccines

Holiday Office Hours

Holidays for 2026 & 2027 where the office is closed (after hour emergent telehealth only):

Now Offering First Aid/CPR Classes

Parents, Grandparents, Nannies, Caregivers or anyone wanting First Aid/CPR/AED:

Book Appointments Online

Check Your Symptoms

Expecting Parents

Tour Our Offices

Find Help in Your Area

Visit FindHelp.org to get started!

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