Can Kids Get the Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines at the Same Time?

Recently, the CDC OK’d the COVID-19 vaccine for children 5 years old and older. This is great news as it’s an important step in helping the U.S. reach herd immunity from the virus.

If you are planning to take your kids to get the COVID-19 vaccine, it might be a good idea to have them vaccinated for the flu as well. The CDC has deemed it safe for kids to receive both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time.

Our AFC Urgent Care Greenwood team explains why below, so keep reading!

Why Is It Safe for Kids to Get the COVID-19 and Flu Vaccines Together?

Getting both vaccines at the same time has received the OK from the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics, but why? There have not been any harmful interactions between the two vaccines, due to the COVID-19 vaccine being an mRNA vaccine and the flu vaccine being a quadrivalent vaccine.

Additionally, the CDC and AAP both recommend that children receive their flu shot as soon as possible due to much higher flu activity this year compared to last year.

Ways for Children to Stay Safe at School

  • Wear a mask.
  • Use good handwashing techniques, such as washing hands for at least 20 seconds each time.
  • Use alcohol-rich hand sanitizer.
  • Cover mouth when coughing or sneezing.
  • Keep hands away from nose and mouth.
  • Don’t share water bottles, food or other personal items.

Is It Possible for Kids to Get the Flu and COVID-19 at the Same Time?

Unfortunately, yes, it is. While COVID-19 is far more dangerous overall than the flu, the flu can still be severe among kids. Getting both viruses at the same time could be catastrophic to a child’s immune and respiratory systems.

If your kids begin to experience any of the symptoms we’ve listed below, keep them home from school to avoid spreading a potential virus to others.

Common Flu and COVID-19 Symptoms

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea

Ready to have your child vaccinated against the flu? For a flu vaccine, no appointments are needed, so stop by today!