Facts About the Flu
How to Prevent the Flu? – Want to avoid spending the winter curled up with a pile of tissues and painkillers? The single best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated each fall before the season begins in November. While getting your annual flu shot can’t offer total protection, it will greatly reduce your chances of contracting this potentially deadly virus – or passing it on to someone else.
Who should get the shot? – The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older receive a flu shot. The vaccine is especially important for people at higher risk of complications from the flu: pregnant women, people with certain medical conditions including asthma, diabetes, and chronic lung disease, people who live with or care for infants, adults age 65 and older, and children ages 5 and younger.
Some people should NOT receive a flu shot without first speaking with their health care provider, including those who: Have had a bad reaction to the flu shot in the past, are allergic to chicken eggs, or have a fever on the day they are scheduled for a flu shot. If you believe you may be at increased risk for developing flu complications, talk with your doctor!
