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Why Vaccinate?

Children and the Flu:
What You Need to Know

The flu is NOT just a bad cold

Colds can be both uncomfortable and contagious, but the flu is different and can cause serious health problems. For example:

  • Children can be sick with the flu for a week or more1
  • Children might spread the flu virus for several days before feeling sick and can be infectious for more than 10 days after onset of symptoms1
  • Flu can lead to serious complications that may result in hospitalizations3

Children are especially likely to get the flu

Research shows that children and young adults 2 to 17 years of age are nearly 2 to 3 times more likely to get the flu than adults.4 In 1 year, the flu caused 38 million lost school days in the US2

School-aged children are primary flu spreaders

When children get sick with the flu, they can infect those around them, including5,6:

  • Other school children
  • Family members
  • The community

This can be especially problematic in high-risk populations.

Important Safety and Eligibility Information

What is FluMist® (Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal)?

FluMist is a vaccine that is sprayed into the nose to help protect against influenza. It can be used in children, adolescents, and adults ages 2 through 49. FluMist may not prevent influenza in everyone who gets vaccinated.

Who should not get FluMist?

You should not get FluMist if you: are allergic to eggs, gentamicin, gelatin, or arginine; have ever had a life-threatening reaction to influenza vaccinations; or are 2 through 17 years old and take aspirin or medicines containing aspirin–children or adolescents should not be given aspirin for 4 weeks after getting FluMist unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise.

Children under 2 years old should not get FluMist because there is a chance they may wheeze (have difficulty with breathing) after getting FluMist.

Who may not be able to get FluMist?

Tell your healthcare provider if you: are currently wheezing; have a history of wheezing if under 5 years old; have had Guillain-Barré syndrome; have a weakened immune system or live with someone who has a severely weakened immune system; have problems with your heart, kidneys, or lungs; have diabetes; are pregnant or nursing; or are taking Tamiflu®, Relenza®, amantadine, or rimantadine.

They will decide if FluMist is right for you.

What are the most common side effects of FluMist?

The most common side effects of FluMist are runny or stuffy nose; sore throat; and fever over 100 degrees F.

Please see the accompanying complete Product Information, including Patient Information.

For more information, please visit FluMist.com.