How can child care providers best protect their programs from the flu?
The peak of flu (influenza) season in the U.S. can occur any time from late December through March. Each season is unique and it is difficult to predict how bad it will be. The best time to get flu shots is October or November. But getting immunized in December and beyond can still protect you against the flu. The exact types of flu viruses expected to occur every season change slightly every year, as does the vaccine. The vaccine’s protection lasts about three months, so it is important to get a flu shot every year. This is the single best way to protect yourself from getting the flu. Between 35 and 50 million Americans get the flu each year, and more than 20,000 people die. Anyone 6 months of age or older may be eligible for the flu shot. Children aged 6 to 23 months are at greatly increased risk for flu-related hospitalizations, so influenza vaccination of all children in this age group is encouraged when possible. Also, the Centers for Disease Control recommends that women beyond t
