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A Great Falls family is learning first-hand that flu shots are not always 100% effective.

Jennifer Chesterfield says her daughter received a flu shot in September, so the family was surprised when the 11-year old was diagnosed with influenza type A on Monday morning.

Chesterfield said, "I thought this morning, common cold, you know, or like yesterday, common cold or just a sore throat. Get them popsicles, the best thing...popsicles for a sore throat. When she's crying and she's really sick and she knows when she's not feeling well, take that extra precaution and take them in."

Kate Marone of the City-County Health Department said, "While it doesn't happen very often, and it's quite rare actually, that someone can go ahead and contract the flu and become ill with the flu even after receiving the flu vaccine, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't get the flu shot because it's still the single best way to protect yourself against the flu."

Marone says some children may have to receive more than one shot and parents should check with their doctors, but one shot is typically enough.

She also says it's important to practice prevention measures such as washing your hands and staying home when you are sick.