Five Tips for Parents for a Painless Flu Shot Experience

You may have heard the kid-friendly nasal mist is no longer a flu vaccine option this year, so opting for a flu shot is the best and most important way to keep children healthy during flu season. Meijer Pharmacists have a few tips for a painless flu shot experience with children this fall:

• Prepare your child. Meet the pharmacist and have him or her explain the process and how it will keep your child healthy.
• Bring a familiar toy. A “lovey” or favorite stuffed animal can help to reduce anxiety and create a more familiar and comfortable setting.
• Involve your child in the process. Ask if your child can pick out a bandage with a favorite character, giving them something to get excited about.
• Share a lap and sing a song. Sitting on a parent’s lap provides a level of comfort, and singing a song together will help the process go much more quickly, as well as provide a distraction.
• Have a treat! Whether it’s a piece of candy, picking out a favorite snack, or a penny to ride “Sandy” the Penny Pony, having something to look forward to provides a positive end to the experience and makes children forget about the momentary discomfort.

The flu shot experience can and should be a positive experience for adults too. Many walk-in options, such as any Meijer Pharmacy, make the process as quick and easy as possible. No appointment is needed, and most major insurance plans are accepted. It is as easy as adding a flu shot to your grocery list.

As a bonus, you can feel good about helping your community. Meijer will donate $5 directly to local, Milwaukee-area food pantries through the Simply Give program for every flu shot administered through November 26.

Most importantly, don’t wait! There is no expiration date to receiving a flu shot, and it takes up to two weeks for the vaccination to be fully effective in the body, so the sooner you and your children receive the flu shot, the better chance you all have of staying healthy. Additionally, symptoms don’t start until 1 to 4 days after the virus enters the body, meaning it could easily passed on before you even know those around you are sick.