Influenza (Flu) Vaccine
The Pediatric Clinic has influenza vaccine available. Please call (903) 572-9823 to schedule an appointment.
FLU MIST VACCINE
Nasal spray influenza vaccine will be available for patients aged 2 years and older likely in October of 2023. If your child has had a history of wheezing within the past year or a history of asthma, they may be a better candidate for the injectable flu vaccine.
What is Influenza (Also Called Flu)?
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year.
Symptoms of Flu
People who have the flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:
- Fever* or feeling feverish/chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches fatigue (very tired)
- Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea
*It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.
Preventing Seasonal Flu: Get Vaccinated.
The single best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccine each season.
The "flu shot"– an inactivated vaccine (containing killed virus) that is given with a needle. The seasonal flu shot is approved for use in people 6 months of age and older, including healthy people, people with chronic medical conditions and pregnant women. For more information, please read the CDC Vaccine Information Statement or view this guidance from the CDC Flu guide for parents Flyer (cdc.gov).
About two weeks after vaccination, antibodies develop that protect against influenza virus infection. Flu vaccines will not protect against flu-like illnesses caused by non-influenza viruses.
