The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) requires schools to share information about influenza (flu) and the benefits of the flu vaccination at the start of flu season in early fall. This year, flu vaccination is more important than ever because the flu and the virus that causes COVID-19 may both be spreading.

According to the NYSDOH, the flu vaccine is the best way to prevent flu. It is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older every year. Getting vaccinated can prevent flu-related hospitalizations and deaths in children. The vaccine can also reduce flu illnesses, doctor’s visits, and missed work and school days. View the NYSDOH Factsheet Fighting Flu at Home and Schools

Additional resources

The CDC’s The Flu: A Guide for Parents explains the seriousness of the flu for children, how to protect them from the flu and how to take care of a child who has the flu.

Another CDC publication Everyday Preventive Actions Can Help Fight Germs, Like Flu provides basic information for flu prevention.