Medical experts urge parents to get flu vaccines for their children as soon as possible

NEW YORK - The American Academy of Pediatrics is advising that all children receive the flu vaccine as soon as it's available, ideally by the end of October.

The flu vaccine is recommended for children six months and older with rare exceptions. The AAP says vaccines are the best way to prevent severe illness and keep kids in the classroom.

Their new policy statement shows there was low flu vaccine coverage last year, with just 55% of children vaccinated. Coverage was lower for Black children compared to White children. While flu infection rates were lower last season likely because of COVID precautions, health experts are concerned we'll see more flu and other respiratory viruses this season.

The flu affects ethnic and racial communities disproportionately. Research over ten flu seasons shows Black, Hispanic, and American Indian/Alaska Native people had higher rates of flu-related hospitalizations. Deaths were also higher in these groups.

The AAP does not have a preference for the type of vaccine a child gets. Depending on age and health, the shot or nasal spray are both effective.

While rare, some children die from the flu each year. Data shows among reported pediatric flu deaths, about 80% of children were not fully vaccinated.

Children under five and children with chronic health problems such as asthma are at the highest risk of flu complications.