Get Your Flu Vaccine

Pregnant Moms

Pregnancy can put you at higher risk for getting the flu and put your unborn baby at risk, too. But getting a flu vaccine can help protect you and your baby.

Children and Families

Young children have a higher risk of health problems from the flu. Newborns are also at a high risk but can’t get the flu vaccine until they are six months old.

People with a Chronic Condition or Caregivers

People with a weakened immune system are more likely to get very ill from the flu. Getting your yearly flu vaccine helps protect yourself and those around you.

Seniors or Those Who Care for Them

Our immune defenses weaken with age. And people age 65 and older are at a higher risk for health issues from the flu. If you’re a senior or live with seniors, a flu vaccine will help protect you all.

Why get your flu vaccine every year?

• Flu viruses are always changing. Scientists predict which virus will be most common each year. Flu vaccines are changed each flu season to make them work as well as possible.
• Your protection with the flu vaccine gets weaker over time. That’s why a yearly flu vaccine is needed to keep you from getting sick.

Can the flu vaccine give me the flu?

No. The flu vaccine is made from either inactive flu virus or none at all. That means getting a flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. But it can reduce your chances of catching the flu.

When and where should you get your flu vaccine?

• You should get a flu vaccine before the flu starts spreading where you live. Fall is the best time to get your yearly vaccine. If possible, get the vaccine by the end of October.
• You can get your flu vaccine in many doctor’s offices. You can also get it in pharmacies, clinics and health centers. Vaccines may also be offered at schools or your workplace.

How do you know if someone has the flu?

The flu is different from a cold. The flu usually comes on suddenly. People who have the flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea. This is more common in children than adults.

Where should you go if you have flu symptoms?

Visit your doctor or urgent care or call the nurse advice line with any health questions. Unless you have a very high fever or trouble breathing, you should not need to go to the emergency room for the flu.