How to keep your child calm during a flu shot
Howard said it’s important that parents remain calm when their child gets a shot. Mom and dad should not show a look of worry -- or fear -- on their faces because a child could react negatively to that. “It’s OK to be scared,” Howard said. “So I just tell them, ‘It’s OK to cry.’ Parents will tell them, ‘Don’t cry. Be brave.’ Of course, be brave, but crying sometimes involves being brave.”Another tip: Howard said it’s best not to wait until they’re walking into the doctor’s office to let your child know they’re getting a shot.
Medical groups urge flu shots
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Saying the need for the flu vaccine is as “great as ever” during the COVID-19 pandemic, the American Medical Association on Wednesday encouraged flu shots for everyone 6 months old and older. “The location or office might look different, but the need for the flu vaccine is as great as ever.”The AMA statement mirrors recommendations issued by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in August. Florida Medical Association Chief Executive Officer Tim Stapleton also issued a statement Wednesday encouraging residents to get flu shots. “Physicians and medical professionals have the resources and multiple venues to provide these vaccinations and encourage patients to protect themselves from the flu,” Stapleton said in a prepared statement. Flu shots are available at pharmacies, physicians' offices and clinics.
Infectious disease doctor: Flu or pneumonia vaccine can help in fight against coronavirus
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Getting a flu or pneumonia vaccine can help in the fight against the coronavirus, according to a Northeast Florida infectious disease doctor. “We know that the flu vaccine decreases influenza-related medical visits by 2.3 million per year,” said Dr. Mohammed Reza, an infectious disease specialist. The flu season begins in October and November and runs through March. “That vaccine to get right now is a good idea because it will give your protection,” Reza said. The CDC recommends all children younger than 2 years old and all adults 65 and older receive a pneumococcal vaccine.