The culprit behind her illness: influenza A, the most common strain of the influenza virus currently circulating across the country. “Young children are at higher risk of hospitalization and serious complications of flu,” she added. “I don’t wish this on anyone.”The best way to protect your familyMost children with influenza will recover well at home, Lockwood explains. “Getting a flu shot is the single best way to prevent the flu,” Stockwell said. Children 6 months through 8 years who are receiving the flu vaccine for the first time should receive two doses one month apart.

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