Navigating Flu Season
Resources to Keep Kids Safe and Healthy
Now more than ever in the time of COVID-19, the health of every family member is crucial. That’s why it’s important for everyone to get a flu shot.
Navigating Flu Season
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Stay informed and find easy ways to get your flu shot
Clinicians at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) support the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations that all people age 6 months or older should receive the flu vaccine every year, with rare exemptions.
The flu season typically begins in October and peaks between December and February. It can take up to two weeks after the shot to develop immunity, so the sooner you and your child are vaccinated, the better!
What should I know about the flu?
Learn about symptoms of flu (and how they compare to a common cold), transmission, treatment and testing:
Influenza in Children >
Common myths and misconceptions about the flu:
What You Should Know About the Flu >
Hear from our experts:
Listen to our latest Town Hall for CHOP Primary Care families >
Why get a flu vaccine?
As we enter a flu season that has the potential to be complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to be prepared. Healthcare officials agree that it’s more important than ever for families not to delay or skip their annual flu vaccinations:
Stopping the Flu/COVID-19 Collision >
Information about the flu vaccine, including who should get it, how it is made, any side effects and more:
A Look at the Flu Vaccine >
How and where to get vaccinated
CHOP Primary Care patients can schedule a flu shot through MyCHOP or by calling their Primary Care practice. We accept all types of insurance for flu shot appointments. You can schedule an appointment for a flu shot or you can request one during your next well or sick visit. Find your Primary Care practice >
Please note that appointments are required for flu shots; we do not accept walk-ins.
What if my child is not a CHOP Primary Care patient?
CHOP is only offering flu shots to CHOP Primary Care patients. If your child is NOT regularly followed by a CHOP Primary Care provider, we encourage you to talk to your child’s pediatrician about your options for getting the flu vaccine. Many commercial pharmacies also offer easy, convenient flu shot appointments.
How you can prevent getting the flu
What to do if your child starts having flu symptoms?
If your child is experiencing symptoms that could indicate the flu, call your Primary Care practice. If it is after office hours, you have the option of taking your child to urgent care or an emergency room.
Learn which one to choose: Emergency Department (ER) vs. Pediatric Urgent Care >
Find a CHOP Urgent Care location near you >