What is the flu?

Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The flu is more serious than the cold and can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death.

Anyone can get sick from the flu. You need to get a flu shot every year to protect yourself and those close to you.

Who should get the flu shot?

All persons aged 6 months and older are recommended for annual vaccination, with rare exception. Vaccination is especially  important for people who are at high risk for serious flu-related complications.

Who is at high risk of developing flu-related complications?

Adults 65 years & older, pregnant woman, young children, Diabetics, HIV/AIDS, Asthma, Heart Disease, Stroke, Cancer, and children with neurological conditions.

Symptoms of the Flu

• Fever* or feeling feverish/chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults

Help Fight the Flu

Four easy tips to stay healthy and prevent spreading the flu to others.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need the flu shot every year?

Yes, you should get the flu shot every year for two reasons: the body’s immune response from vaccination declines over time and because flu viruses are constantly changing, the formulation of the flu vaccine changes for each flu season. For the best protection, everyone 6 months and older should get vaccinated annually.

Is the flu shot effective?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against the flu.

Is the flu shot safe?

Millions of flu vaccines have been given safely over the years, and vaccine safety remains a priority. It’s important to know that the flu vaccine cannot give you the flu.

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/flu