DALLAS — The greenlight to expand COVID-19 vaccinations for children ages 5-11 comes just as we enter the influenza season. For parents trying to secure both shots for their kids, taking care of both with one appointment would be convenient.
THE QUESTION
Is it safe for kids to get COVID-19 and flu shots at the same appointment?
THE SOURCES
Dr. Jason Terk, pediatrician at Cook Children’s Health Care and chair for the Texas Public Health Coalition.
THE ANSWER
Yes, it is safe for kids to receive both shots at the same time.
WHAT WE FOUND
Terk said it is fine for kids to get a double-jab in one visit as there have been no problems created by interactions between the two vaccines. Both received the OK from the Centers for Disease Control and the American Academy of Pediatrics.
In fact, Terk said those organizations recommend children receive their flu shot as soon as possible due to concerns this influenza season could be severe after an almost non-existent season in the heart of last year’s pandemic when social distancing was still being practiced.