Age Appropriateness of Kids Flu Shots

The flu vaccine is not approved for use on children younger than 6 months of age. However, anyone else who wants to reduce their chances of getting the flu can get vaccinated. Flu shots are recommended for kids between 6 months and 18 years old who have chronic health problems including asthma or other lung problems, immune suppression (including HIV/AIDS), chronic kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes or sickle cell anemia, or are on long-term aspirin therapy.

Infants are primarily exposed to the flu in day-care settings or from contact with sick adults or children. This may result in spread of the flu to other household members, so if you are the parent of a newborn, you may want to receive a flu shot to help keep your baby safe as well. Further information can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's influenza site.