Influenza viruses change frequently and infection with one strain does not provide protection against all strains.

The Disease

Influenza, known more commonly as "the flu," is caused by the influenza virus, which infects the respiratory tract (nose, throat, and lungs). Unlike many other viral respiratory infections, such as the common cold, the flu can cause severe illness and life threatening complications in many people.

(more about the symptoms and way it's spread)

The Immunization

Two types of influenza vaccine are now available: inactivated (or killed) vaccine and live attenuated (or weakened) vaccine.The inactivated influenza vaccine is given as a shot and has been used in the United States for many years. The attenuated vaccine, licensed in 2003, is given as a nasal spray. It is licensed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for healthy children and adults from 2-49 years of age.

(More about the immunization and side effects)

Vaccine Recommendations

• AAP Prevention of Influenza: Recommendations for 2008-2009
  • Preparing Your Practice for Influenza Guidance
• CDC: Prevention and Control of Influenza (Exit Site)
• CDC: Flu Vaccination for Healthcare Workers
• Influenza Distribution Updates (Exit Site)

For Parents and Child Care Providers

• Preventing the Flu- Strategies and Resources for Child Care Providers and Out-of-Home Caregivers! (PDF, 218KB)
• Key Facts About Influenza and Influenza Vaccine (Exit Site)
• Stopping the Spread of Germs at Home, Work & School (Exit Site)
• Influenza FAQs for Parents (PDF, 162KB)
• Cover Your Cough! (Exit Site)

Quick Facts - What You Need to Know

• Why get vaccinated?
• Who should get influenza vaccine and when?
• Some people should not get influenza vaccine or should wait
• What are the risks from influenza vaccine?
• What if there is a moderate or severe reaction?
• Link to AAP Policy Statement, Recommendations for Influenza Immunization of Children

Pandemic Influenza Resources

• Pandemic Flu Issue Brief from AAP and TFAH
• CDC Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) Web site
  (Exit Site)
• AAP Web site with Avian Influenza Resources

Other Resources

• Red Book Online Flu Resources (Exit Site)
• CDC Influenza Page (Exit Site)
• FDA Information on Past and Present Influenza Vaccine (Exit Site)
• Immunization Action Coalition Influenza Page (Exit Site)
• National Network for Immunization Information Influenza Page (Exit Site)