by Scott Flinn, MD, regional medical director, Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan
As a practicing urgent care physician in San Diego, I see firsthand how severely the flu can affect young children. Each year in the United States, millions of children get sick with the flu and thousands are hospitalized because of severe complications. We can prevent the worst of these cases with the flu vaccine, which is available for children 6 months and older.
We now know that the 2024-2025 flu season was the most severe in more than 15 years, particularly for children under the age of 4. Lower vaccination rates contributed to nearly twice as many emergency department visits, hospitalizations and complications.
Why flu protection matters for your child
The first two years of life are critical for a child’s development — and protecting them from preventable diseases like the flu is essential. According to California Department of Public Health, all children age 6 months and older should receive a flu vaccine every year.
Children between 6 months to 2 years old are especially at risk for serious flu-related complications. Those with chronic conditions, such as asthma, are at even greater risk of complications, and even otherwise healthy children can become seriously ill and spread the virus to others in their household or community.
While the vaccine doesn’t guarantee your child won’t get the flu, the vaccine can reduce the risk of life-threatening illness and hospitalization by up to 75%.
Flu vaccine Q&A: What parents need to know
What is the flu and how does it spread?
Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus that infects the nose, throat and sometimes the lungs. It is spread by droplets when infected people cough, sneeze or talk. Symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, chills and fatigue.
How serious is the flu for children?
Children under the age of 2 are especially vulnerable. Every year, thousands of children in this country are hospitalized with complications from the flu, including pneumonia. The 2024-2025 season saw a record of 216 pediatric deaths in the United States, making it the deadliest non-pandemic flu season in recent history.
When is the best time for my child to get vaccinated?
The best time to vaccinate is September and October. Ideally, everyone 6 months and older should be vaccinated by the end of October. However, getting vaccinated later in the season, such as January or February, can still offer protection, especially if flu activity remains high in your area.
What if my child has never received a flu vaccine before?
If your child is over 6 months old and has never received a flu vaccine before, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends they receive two doses four weeks apart to be fully protected. Children who have previously only had one flu shot should have a second dose before they are 2 years old and every year afterward. Consult your pediatrician about your child’s immunization schedule.
Why do some children need two flu shots?
The immune systems of young children are still developing. Research has shown that a “priming” dose to get the immune system ready to respond, followed by a second dose at least four weeks later, provides a higher level of immunity against the flu virus. This approach is especially important for first-time vaccine recipients.
How do I know if my child needs two doses?
Your child’s pediatrician may recommend two doses if your child is:
-
Between 6 months and 2 years old
-
Has never received a flu vaccine or their vaccination history is unclear
If your child falls into any of these categories, your child’s pediatrician may recommend that you start the vaccination process early to allow time between doses before peak flu season. When in doubt, consult your pediatrician.
Where can my child get the flu vaccine?
To schedule your child’s flu shot, start by contacting their pediatrician. Most local pharmacies also offer vaccines for children who are 3 years and older. For more details on in-network retail partners where older children can get vaccinated, visit the Blue Shield of California Where to get a flu shot webpage.