Parents of young children are likely to be perplexed when confronted by their pediatricians, with the current recommendation to vaccinate young children under the age of 6 years of age against influenza virus, and the medical literature, which does not confirm the vaccination guidelines.

Last year, the Centers for Disease Control recommended flu vaccine for babies ages 6 to 23 months because studies show children younger than 2 have hospitalization rates second only to people age 65 and older.

This year, a report from Children's Hospital Boston, showed that preschool-age children (age 3-4 years) are the first to show up each year in emergency rooms and clinics with flu, followed by babies younger than 2, which drives the flu transmission to others in the family. [American Journal Epidemiology, Oct. 1, 2005] So pediatricians are now targeting preschoolers for vaccination.

But these recommendations operate on a false assumption --- since there is infection, vaccination is the cure. There is little evidence to substantiate flu shots for young children. Here is what our investigation found.

This report includes reference that you can give to your pedatrician

(24 pages e-book only $5.95. Papaer printout $9.95)