What You Need to Know
- The flu can be especially serious for children under the age of 5. Each year, thousands of children are hospitalized with the flu, and it can be fatal.
- Serious flu complications in children include pneumonia, dehydration, ear infections and sinus problems and worsening of existing medical problems like asthma or heart conditions.
- The N.J. Department of Health and the CDC recommend the flu shot for children six months or older. Talk to a doctor, nurse or health clinic staff about the flu shot.
- RSV vaccination is recommended for infants under 8 months who were not protected by maternal vaccination during pregnancy, and for children 8 to 19 months in certain risk groups.
- To protect against COVID, the N.J. Department of Health recommends an annual updated COVID-19 vaccine for all young children ages 6–23 months, and for children 2–18 years in certain risk groups or if desired.
- The CDC recommends parents talk with their doctor or other medical professional about the importance of COVID vaccination for themselves and their children starting at 6 months of age.
- In addition, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all young children ages 6-23 months get vaccinated against COVID-19, along with older children in certain risk groups such as those who have a health condition that puts them at greater risk for respiratory illness.
More Information
Protect Against Respiratory Illness
Children and influenza
For parents with young children
Para padres de niños pequeños
American Academy of Pediatrics Recommended Childhood Immunization Schedule 2026