Page 4 - Healthy Kids Now - Winter 2021/2022

4
How to stay healthy during the height of flu season
Taking protective measures, like washing hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, avoiding touching the face area, and sneezing into your elbow or using a tissue to avoid infection are effective ways to stay healthy during flu season. One of the most critical steps you and your child can take is getting the flu shot as well.
The flu is preventable, and the flu virus is different every year.That’s why getting an annual flu vaccine is the
best defense to prevent the flu and stay healthy. While the flu shot is not 100% effective, it is the best way to protect you and your child against the flu.
You need to plan for the flu vaccine, as it can take up to two weeks to work, so it’s important to get your child vaccinated as soon as possible. It’s also important
to remember that the flu and COVID-19 may present similar symptoms but are very different viruses.To keep your child healthy, stay up-to-date on all their recommended immunizations, including a yearly flu shot.
COVID-19 vaccines may be administered without regard to timing of other vaccines.This includes simultaneous administration of the COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines on the same day.
You can get your child’s flu shot at no cost when you present their member ID card at their in-network doctor’s office, retail health clinic, or pharmacy.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (For more information, visit www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/clinical- considerations/covid-19-vaccines-us.html#Coadministration.)