Posted by: Matthew Washam, MD, MPH on Oct 27, 2025


Flu season is here—and so are the myths about the flu shot. From “it causes the flu” to “kids don’t need it,” misinformation can put children at risk. Get the facts from experts and learn why the flu vaccine is the best protection for your family.

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Pediatric News You Can Use From America’s Largest Pediatric Hospital and Research Center

700 Children’s® features the most current pediatric health care information and research from our pediatric experts – physicians and specialists who have seen it all. Many of them are parents and bring a special understanding to what our patients and families experience. If you have a child – or care for a child – 700 Children’s was created especially for you.

Latest Posts

image of pairs of flip flops next to a swimming pool

Summer Safety Guide: Expert Advice for Fun in the Sun

Jun 07, 2018

Our experts are giving you access to a Summer Guide full of tips and articles for a safe and healthy break. From advice on bumps and bruises, to swimming and playground safety and even managing your child’s mental health, we have advice for you and your child to have a safe and fun summer. Read More

image of kids watching a movie

Show Dogs: What Parents Need to Know

May 23, 2018

A new PG-rated children’s movie, Show Dogs, promises a light-hearted story of talking dogs who fight crime. However, it also sends a disturbing message to children about who is allowed to touch their private parts. Read More

image of lazy river

Pool Drains Are Not Toys: Viral Video Reminds Us to Review Pool Safety with Kids

Apr 27, 2018

Parents should teach their children to stay away from drains and make sure there is always a responsible adult watching children when they are in the water, regardless of their age. Read More

Synthetic marijuana

What Parents Need to Know About the Dangers of Synthetic Marijuana

Apr 05, 2018

So far, 94 cases have been reported in 17 states and two people have died from bleeding from the use of synthetic cannabinoids. Read More

JUULing

JUULing: What Parents Need to Know About the Latest Teen Trend

Mar 15, 2018

If you are the parent of a middle or high school student, you know there’s a new trend every month, if not more often. Recently, JUULs (pronounced like jewels) and JUULing have become all the rage. Read More

Tide pods

Have You Heard of the Tide Pod Challenge? Your Kids Probably Have!

Jan 19, 2018

The Challenge By now, many people have heard about the Tide Pod challenge. Teens are filming themselves biting into or smoking Tide Pods or other laundry detergent packets and then posting the video on social media. Some of these videos are now going viral. Read More

Mom and her kids using a tablet.

Our Top 10 Blog Posts of 2017

Dec 28, 2017

For the past three years we have saved a slot on our calendar to list the top 10 posts of the year. In 2017, we shared year-over-year favorites, trending and newsworthy topics and told you about new initiatives. Read More

Open shutters

Window Blinds and Child Injury: Safety Tips for Your Home

Dec 11, 2017

Window blinds can cause serious injuries or even death to young children. On average, two children under 6 years of age are treated in a U.S. hospital emergency department each day for a window blind-related injury. Read More