It’s that time of year again when your kids are exposed to colds and flu, and this year especially there are some nasty viruses going around that could send your son or daughter to the ER. According to Powell Pediatrics, annual flu shots can reduce the risk of dangerous flu viruses.

It seems like everyone is concerned about the Ebola virus, but people seem to forget that influenza can be severe and is extremely unpredictable. Young children are especially at risk as are women who are pregnant and the elderly.

Between 1976 and 2006, the CDC estimates that as many as 49,000 people died from influenza complications. The best way to avoid seasonal flu is to schedule an appointment with Powell Pediatrics for a flu shot.

A flu vaccination will protect you and your kids against the most common viruses during the flu season. Powell Pediatrics recommends that everyone over the age of 6 months have a flu shot every year.

If you and your kids haven’t had your flu, vaccine schedule an appointment with Powell Pediatrics as immunity sets in around 14 days after the vaccination.