Flu Vaccine

Get your 2023-2024 FLU VACCINE by HALLOWEEN

As always, we will be giving flu vaccines at check-ups, sibling check-ups, and by appointment during Flu Vaccine Clinics.

Flu Vaccine Tips:

  • *Have your child wear a loose short sleeve T-shirt or tank top. Take off any jackets or sweatshirts before you enter the waiting room. Less hassle and less waiting means less time for your child to worry about getting a shot.*
  • You know your child best- but most children do well with some advance notice that they are coming in for a shot. A last minute surprise often does not go over well. On the other hand, too much build-up and focus on the shot can also be difficult for some kids.  Focus on the feeling of accomplishment they will have once its done!
  • Our 2023 Flu Vaccine Clinics will have scheduled appointments to allow for social distancing.  Families will go to a room immediately on arrival.  You do not need to call from your car.  Please arrive exactly at your appointment time.  See above for tips on what to wear!
  • Flu vaccine clinics are for the flu shot. Sorry - no mist available!
  • Can my child get a flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time? Yes. Children ages 6 months and older who are eligible for COVID-19 vaccination can get a COVID-19 vaccine and a flu vaccine at the same visit. HOWEVER, we do not yet have the newest Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine (2023-2024 Formula) available. We are currently awaiting the arrival of our supply from the state. At this time, no COVID-19 Vaccines are available as the previous version is no longer authorized.

Flu Vaccine Clinic Dates Fall 2023 *By Appointment Only* 

Our Flu Vaccine Clinics are completed for the season. We are now scheduling individual Immunization Visits (with our RN and MA). Call today and we'll find a date that works for you!

Call (603) 224-1929 to schedule an appointment for your child!


Which flu vaccine should my child get this season (2023-2024)?

Everyone 6 months of age and older should get the flu vaccine each year to update their protection. It is the best way to prevent getting the flu. Safe vaccines are made each year and the best time to get the flu vaccine is before the flu virus starts circulating in your community--in the late summer/early fall or as soon as it is available in your community.  

There are two types of influenza vaccines available. The first is what many people call the "flu shot." The second comes as a nasal spray for individuals over 2 years old. All vaccines available for children this season at Concord Pediatrics are quadrivalent (help a person fight 4 influenza virus strains). 

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all children 6 months of age and older receive an influenza vaccine, and both types of available flu vaccine (flu shot or nasal spray) can be given according to their age indications, with no preference, for the 2022-2023 flu season. You can read more about the AAP recommendations here: "Which Flu Vaccine Should My Children Get This Year?"

Concord Pediatrics currently has the flu shot in stock and a very (very) limited supply of nasal spray.  Due to limited production/availability, please do not promise your child that they can get the nasal spray/mist! Flu shots (not mist) will be given at flu vaccine clinics.  Pharmacies may have more flu mist inventory and going to your local pharmacy could be a better option if you would like your child to get flu mist.


What is the flu? And why are pediatricians so worried about it?

Flu is the short term for influenza. It is an illness caused by a respiratory virus (fever, congestion, cough). The flu can spread rapidly through communities, as the virus is passed person to person. Please note this is different (and is more severe) than a viral stomach (vomiting and diarrhea) illness which some people call "the stomach flu."

Flu symptoms include:

  • A sudden fever (usually above 101°F or 38.3°C)
  • Chills and body shakes
  • Headache, body aches, and being a lot more tired than usual
  • Sore throat
  • Dry, hacking cough
  • Stuffy, runny nose
  • Some children may throw-up (vomit) and have loose stools (diarrhea).

After the first few days of these symptoms, a sore throat, stuffy nose, and continuing cough become most evident. The flu can last a week or even longer. A child with a common cold usually has only a low-grade fever, a runny nose, and only a small amount of coughing. Children with the flu—or adults, for that matter—usually feel much sicker, achier, and more miserable.

Why do pediatricians worry about the flu?  Pediatricians have all seen children (even previously healthy children) hospitalized with serious complications from the flu. Influenza can lead to:

  • Pneumonia: an illness where the lungs get infected and inflamed
  • Dehydration: when a child’s body loses too much water and salts
  • Worsening of long-term medical problems like heart disease or asthma
  • Brain dysfunction such as encephalopathy
  • In rare cases, flu complications can lead to death.

How can I prevent the flu?

Getting the flu vaccine each year is the best way to avoid the flu. Safe vaccines are made each year and the best time to get the flu vaccine is before the flu virus starts circulating in your community--in the late summer/early fall or as soon as it is on hand in your community.

How is the flu different from COVID-19?

Both the flu (influenza) and COVID-19 are contagious and will be spreading this fall and winter. They have similar symptoms, so it can be hard to tell them apart. You can read more about the 2 different viruses, and the illnesses they cause here.