Visit Our Flu Clinic – Your Way!

It’s that time of year—flu clinic season! And this year, we’ve got you covered with two convenient options for double the opportunity. East Portland Pediatric Clinic patients can choose between a drive-thru or an indoor clinic—whichever works best for your family’s schedule.

🏥 Indoor Clinic: Tuesday, October 28, 2025 • 9am–4pm

Call us at 503-255-3544 or sign in to the patient portal to schedule your spot.

Everyone ages 6 months and older should get a flu shot each year. We’re here to make sure your child gets through flu season as safely as possible. 

👉New to our drive-thru clinic or curious how it works? Watch our video on what to expect: Drive Thru Flu Clinic

Common Questions Families Ask

When should my child get the flu shot?

The sooner, the better. Getting vaccinated early gives the body time to build protection before flu germs are everywhere. We recommend getting it before Halloween.

Can the flu shot give kids the flu?

No. The vaccine uses inactive pieces of the virus, which can’t cause illness. Some children may get a sore arm, low fever, or body aches afterward—that just means their immune system is preparing to fight.

 👉 Kids ages 2 and up can also get the nasal spray vaccine. Flu Mist uses a weakened (not dead) flu virus to trigger immunity. It might cause a runny nose or sore throat afterwards.

Do we still need the vaccine if my child already had the flu?

Yes! First, let’s make sure we’re talking about influenza, not “stomach flu.” Influenza is a respiratory illness that causes fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches (sometimes with vomiting or diarrhea). “Stomach flu,” or gastroenteritis, is different. It mainly causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Even if you’ve had influenza, you should still get vaccinated. Each season brings several strains and catching one doesn’t protect you from the others. We see people get sick again with a second strain every year.

Why bother if the flu shot isn’t 100%?

Because it’s still the best defense we have. The vaccine prevents millions of cases each year and makes illness much milder if your child does catch the flu.

What else can we do to prevent the flu?

Here are some healthy habits you and your family can do that make a big difference:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water.
• Get plenty of rest and keep your immune system strong.
• Stay home if you or your child feels sick — this helps protect others.
• Follow AAP’s guidance on when to keep a sick child home from school.
• Check our recommended acetaminophen and ibuprofen dosages if your child needs symptom relief.
• The CDC also recommends wearing a mask (KN95 or KF94 for best protection) if you’re ill or spending time with someone at higher risk.

Ready to Protect Your Family?

Don’t wait until flu germs start spreading. Choose the clinic that works best for you—drive-thru or indoor—and schedule today.

📞 Call 503-255-3544 or sign in to the patient portal to book your ap