Influenza causing children to be hospitalized more frequently

Did your child get the flu shot last year?  Here’s an interesting statistic about influenza in children.  In 2000 influenza was #65 in frequency for an American child (age 17 and under) to be hospitalized.  In 2009 influenza was #10 in this ranking.  The top three reasons a child (age 17 and under) is hospitalized is pneumonia, asthma and acute bronchitis.  The #10 reason is influenza.   This information can be found at http://www.hcup-us.ahrq.gov/reports/statbriefs/sb118.pdf

I recognize some parents have strong feelings and opinions about vaccinations (which may include the flu shot).  I recommend you talk with your pediatrician/family doctor about your child’s health status and whether he/she should receive the flu shot.