With the first cases of the flu (influenza) virus being reported in Colorado this season, it’s more important than ever to get the vaccine for you and your children. Read on for some quick facts about the vaccine.

1. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone over the age of 6 months.

2 There are two options for the flu vaccine: the inactivated vaccine, given as a shot, or the live-attenuated vaccine, given as a nasal spray. These are considered equally effective. The nasal spray is approved for children over age 2.

3. This year, the flu vaccine covers four influenza strains: two influenza A and two influenza B strains.

4. Children between 6 months and 8 years old who have never received the flu vaccine require two doses of the vaccine, given at least 4 weeks apart.

5. The flu vaccine is especially important for children under the age of 5 or with chronic health issues such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes, as they are at higher risk for complications from the flu.

6. It is safe to receive the flu vaccine at the same time as other vaccines.

7. Children with egg allergies can receive the flu vaccine.

8. Children with COVID-19 can still get a flu vaccine after they have recovered from their illness.

9. The flu vaccine does not cause the flu.

10. Side effects from the flu vaccine include fever, fatigue, and redness or soreness at the site of injection.