Flu Season 2026: What Every Parent Should Know
When to get vaccinated, warning signs, and how to protect your family.
The 2025-2026 flu season has brought higher-than-average case counts across Southern California, making vaccination and early intervention more important than ever for families with young children.
Get Vaccinated — It's Not Too Late
The flu vaccine remains the single most effective way to protect your child. Children 6 months and older should receive the flu vaccine annually. If your child hasn't been vaccinated yet this season, it's not too late — the vaccine provides protection within about two weeks.
Know the Warning Signs
While most flu cases resolve at home, seek medical attention if your child has difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, severe or persistent vomiting, confusion or altered behavior, fever above 104°F, or symptoms that improve then return worse with fever and cough.
Home Care Essentials
Rest, fluids, and fever management with appropriate doses of acetaminophen or ibuprofen are the foundation of home care. Keep sick children home from school or daycare until they've been fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication.
All 9 American Pediatrics locations have flu vaccines in stock. Call your nearest office to schedule a vaccination visit — walk-ins are also welcome during regular hours.
Have Questions About Your Child's Health?
Our board-certified pediatricians are here to help at all 9 Southern California locations.
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