Influenza (the Flu) Information and Resources

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health continues to strongly recommend that everyone age six months and older receive a seasonal flu vaccine each year.

Why should my child get the influenza vaccine?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly flu (influenza) vaccine for all children 6 months and older. This year, the CDC recommends the flu shot or the nasal spray flu vaccine. A flu vaccine offers the best defense against flu and its potentially serious consequences and can also reduce the spread of flu to others. Getting vaccinated has been shown to reduce flu illnesses, doctor’s visits, missed work and school days, and reduce the risk of flu-related hospitalization and death in children.

Is it possible for my child to get the flu from the influenza vaccine (flu shot)?

No. The flu vaccine can’t give your child the flu.

What type of influenza vaccine can students receive?

Any age-appropriate licensed influenza vaccine for the current season is acceptable. This includes injectable and nasal spray vaccine types.

Do younger students require 2 doses according to ACIP guidelines?

Children younger than 9 may need two doses of influenza vaccine depending on the number of influenza vaccines they have received in the past. Children should be vaccinated according to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).