What is the flu?
Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent flu is by getting a flu vaccine each
Who should get vaccinated?
Everyone 6 months and older in the United States should get an influenza (flu) vaccine every season with rare exception. The flu season generally runs between early October and late February.
Why should you get this vaccination?
Influenza (flu) vaccines (often called “flu shots”) are vaccines that protect against the four influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the upcoming season. Most flu vaccines are “flu shots” given with a needle, usually in the arm, but there also is a nasal spray flu vaccine.
Where can you get it?
Flu vaccines are offered in many places, such as physician offices, clinics, health departments, drugstores, and university health centers as well as from many employers and even at some schools. Visit our flu page for a map of local vaccination providers.
More information:
Learn more about flu here.