Protect Your Child’s Health This Winter

As winter approaches, it's time to start thinking about protecting your child from the flu and other respiratory illnesses like RSV. Here are some key updates and tips to keep your family healthy.

Flu Vaccines
For Kids 6 Months and Older 

Influenza (flu) season is here, and vaccinating your child is one of the best ways to protect them from serious illness and/or complications associated with the virus.

Available Types of Flu Vaccines

• The flu shot is available for children starting at 6 months of age.

• The flu mist is available for children ages 2 years and older. The flu mist is a nasal spray vaccine that is an easy, needle-free alternative that provides the same protection as the flu shot.

Advantages of the Flu Vaccine for Kids

• Prevent serious illness and/or complications: The flu virus can lead to serious illness and complications like ear infections, pneumonia, and even hospitalization, especially for young children.

• Protect your family and community: Vaccinating your child helps protect not only them but everyone around them, especially vulnerable family members such as infants and elderly relatives.

Both the flu shot and flu mist are safe and effective ways to protect your child and those around them. Schedule your child’s flu vaccine today and keep them healthy this cold and flu season.

RSV Vaccines

Necessary for Newborns and Infants

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory illness that is particularly dangerous for infants under 6 months of age. With RSV season upon us, our highly-skilled providers at Kids Central Pediatrics recommend RSV vaccines for all babies, and especially those at high risk. This includes infants born prematurely, those with heart conditions, or those who have a weakened immune system.

The RSV Vaccine is Essential to Infants Younger than 6 Months of Age

• Nearly 50% of all RSV hospitalizations during the first year occur during the first 3 months of life.

• 75-80% of hospitalizations due to RSV occurred during the first 6 months of life.

• Prevent hospitalizations: Babies under 6 months are at the greatest risk of severe RSV, which can lead to serious illness and/or complications such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia.

• Provide timely protection: RSV season peaks between late fall and early winter, so being vaccinated early helps ensure your baby is protected during these critical months.

The RSV vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect your child. Talk to your pediatrician about whether your baby qualifies for the RSV vaccine.

Cold Remedies for Kids Under 4

What You Need to Know

When your little one catches a cold, you might be surprised to learn that over-the-counter cold medications are not recommended for children under 4 years old. But, be rest assured there are several safe and effective ways to provide relief for your child suffering from cold symptoms. 

Tips to Ease Cold Symptoms for Kids

• Use a humidifier: Keeping the air moist can help soothe irritated airways and reduce congestion.

• Use saline drops and a bulb syringe: This is a safe way to clear nasal congestion, especially before naps or bedtime.

• Drink plenty of fluids: Keeping your child hydrated helps thin mucus and supports the immune system.

• Get plenty of rest: Encourage naps and quiet time to help their body recover.

While these tips won’t cure a cold, they can help make your child more comfortable while their body works to recover.