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

Student sitting at desk with a caffeinated beverage

Caffeine Overdose: Why This Stimulant Isn't Safe for Kids

May 16, 2017

The recent death of a 16-year-old boy from a caffeine overdose is both horrible and terrifying, and is just the tip of a very large iceberg. Many adolescents suffer from caffeine toxicity which can manifest itself in nervousness, tremor, rapid heart rate, mild dehydration, low potassium levels, and Read More

Nursery Product Injuries: What Families Need to Know

Mar 29, 2017

Preparing your home for a new baby can be overwhelming. As parents, we assume the products available for us to buy for our kids are safe. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Read More

Antibiotic Resistance: What Parents Need to Know About Overuse

Mar 15, 2017

Runny nose, cough and congestion are very common in the winter and spring. It happens every year. Antibiotics are life-saving drugs that kill some types of germs (bacteria), but also have side effects and can stop working for some bacteria if they are overused in either one person or in a Read More

How to Be Prepared for Cold Weather Emergencies

Jan 05, 2017

When the weather turns frigid, it is important to remember how to protect your family from dangerous temperatures and wind chills. Here are a few reminders to keep them safe. If you’re traveling in a car make sure you have the right clothing. Read More

Our Top 10 Posts of 2016

Dec 29, 2016

It is time, once again, to reflect on the last year and thank the many contributors to 700 Children’s (we added 57 new authors in 2016!) and the hundreds of thousands of readers who come here for informative, evidence-based content. Read More

Holiday Candles: Tips to Keep Your Family Safe

Dec 19, 2016

Candles are often used at this time of year – for religious or cultural celebrations or to make the house smell nice. Many families have traditions around holiday candles and most children are eager to participate in the lighting festivities – but when can they safely do so? Ultimately, Read More

Skiing and Snowboarding Injury Prevention: Reducing Risk on the Slopes

Dec 14, 2016

Cold weather is here and snow is starting to fall, which means the unofficial start of skiing and snowboarding season! While this is a fun and exciting time of year, snow sport injuries are common and can range from minor bumps and bruises to serious trauma and head injuries. Read More

Understanding the Dangers of Treadmills

Nov 01, 2016

Exercise equipment is commonly used to improve personal health and well-being and treadmills account for about 25% of exercise equipment purchased for home use. Previous studies have shown that the rate of treadmill-related injuries appears to be rising. Read More