Kids Thrive

Our community and Colorado prosper when our kids thrive because they are our future workforce, leaders and community members. All kids, no matter where they live need high-quality care giving for their development. We all have a role to play in helping parents and caregivers prepare Colorado’s kids for the future.

Children’s social and emotional development begins before birth and is just as important to their success as their cognitive and physical development.

Children’s physical health also begins before birth and lays the foundation for future healthy development.

Services and policies that help strengthen families, prevent abuse and neglect, aid caregivers struggling with adversity, and promote positive interactions within families and caregivers help kids develop their potential.

Avoid a Twindemic!  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.

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Why a flu shot is important

Children can get seriously ill from the flu, especially if they did not get a flu shot. During last year's flu season, 188 children under 19 died of complications from influenza, according to the CDC. Typically, about 80% of children who die from flu are not vaccinated. That's why children 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine before the start of the flu season each year.

Even if your child had COVID-19, they can still get a flu shot once symptoms go away if they have not been previously vaccinated.


The flu shot can be given to children who are otherwise healthy and also children with underlying medical conditions. Children with certain medical conditions (heart or lung disease, obesity, diabetes, or sickle cell disease for example) can be at risk of more severe illness from both COVID-19 or flu.

Where is the best place to get the flu shot for my child?

The best place to get a flu shot is your pediatrician's office. During the visit, your child can get other vaccinations, if needed. Your child also can catch up on any routine care that you may have had to delay because of the pandemic.

This flu season, you can choose between a flu shot and a nasal spray vaccine. Both protect against the four strains of the influenza virus (two A strains and two B strains) that are expected to cause most flu cases this season. Your pediatrician can help you decide which is best for your child.

Remember

Talk with your pediatrician if you have any questions about COVID-19 or the flu.

More Information



Last Updated
 
9/18/2020
Source
 
Adapted from “Why flu vaccine is important during COVID-19 pandemic,” AAP News, by Trisha Korioth (Copyright ©2020)
The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.



Local Resources & Programs

Find information about local resources and programs that support kids and families.

Websites on Social Emotional Development

See websites with more information on social emotional development.

Related Websites for Families