Flu (Influenza)

girl blowing nose

Flu is the short term for influenza. It is an illness caused by a respiratory virus. The flu is passed person to person. When someone with the flu coughs or sneezes, the influenza virus gets into the air, and people nearby, including children, can inhale it through the nose or mouth.

The best way to protect against the flu is to get the flu vaccine. (See Annapolis Pediatrics' fall 2022 flu vaccine options HERE)

Other effective ways to keep germs from spreading are to practice the 3 W’s. WASH your hands, WEAR your mask and WATCH your distance. As early as possible, get your children into the habit of washing their hands (with soap) often and thoroughly.

The flu season usually starts in the fall and ends in the spring. We recommend getting your child’s flu shot in the fall of each year. One way to remember your child’s annual flu shot is #FluBeforeBoo.

CLICK THE “PLAY BUTTON” BELOW TO WATCH VIDEOS FROM OUR PROVIDERS ON FLU PREVENTION, SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT TIPS.