The Importance of Getting a Flu Shot
According to the CDC, the single best way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year.
Who should get a flu shot?
- Children from 6 months to 18 years old
- Pregnant women
- Adults over age 50
- Anyone with chronic medical conditions
- People who live or work in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities
- People who live with or care for anyone in a high-risk group
- Healthcare workers
- People who live or work with children under 6 months of age
Who should not get a flu shot?
- Anyone with severe allergy to chicken eggs
- Anyone who has had a severe reaction to a past flu vaccine
- Anyone with a history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) within 6 weeks of getting a flu vaccine
- Children younger than 6 months
- Anyone currently suffering from moderate or severe illness with fever should wait until healthy to get a flu shot
How does the vaccine work?
Each year, a flu vaccine is developed based on recently circulating strains of the flu virus. When the vaccine is given, antibodies that provide protection against the flu develop in the body.
When should I get a flu shot?
October and November are the most effective months for vaccination. You can get vaccinated as early as September, and vaccines are generally available and of value until January or beyond.
For more information on the flu, see the: Center for Disease Control Flu Information.