The holidays are upon us! Which means merriment, family and friend gatherings—and germs.
Unfortunately for us, viruses thrive in colder weather. And the more time we spend indoors with one another, the more we’re at risk for getting sick. Especially our little ones, whose immune systems are still developing.
Get ahead of the cold and flu season and keep your holidays festive and bright with these immunization tips:
- Check if your child is old enough to receive the flu vaccine. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends everyone six months and older get a flu vaccine. Flu vaccines are also recommended for individuals who are pregnant, so both parent and the baby are protected from the flu. Learn more: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/vaccines/vaccinations.html
- Stay up to date on vaccines. Babies are born with immune systems that can fight most germs. For the more serious diseases, they need the help of vaccines to fight off and prevent infection. Find your immunization schedule at: https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/hhsa/programs/phs/immunization_branch/VaccineRecommendations/YoungChildren.html
- Keep up with well-child visits: Well-child visits provide an opportunity for your child to get ahead of illness by scheduling regular immunizations. Find out what is in store for your little one at their next checkup at https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/health-management/Pages/Well-Child-Care-A-Check-Up-for-Success.aspx
Of course, even with all the precautions taken, the best thing you can do to protect everyone is to stay home if you or your little one is not feeling well. We have a variety of at-home activities on our website so you can keep the good times going!