Get a Flu Shot

Get a flu shot every year if you are age 50 or older.

When Should I Get the Flu Shot?
October or November is the best time to get a flu shot, but you can still get the shot in December or later. Flu season can last as late as May.

What is the Flu?
The flu is caused by a virus that infects your nose, throat, and lungs. It’s easily spread from person to person.

Symptoms of the flu include:

• High fever
• Headache
• Tiredness
• Runny nose
• Cough
• Muscle aches

Visit these websites to learn more about the flu:

• Flu -- Get the Shot
• Seasonal Flu

The best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu shot.

Why Should I Get a Flu Shot?
For many people, the flu is a mild illness. But in older adults, the flu can sometimes lead to:

• Serious infections like pneumonia
• Hospitalizations
• Death

This is especially true for older adults with:

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Breathing problems

The flu can also make some health problems worse. These health problems include:

• Asthma or other lung problems
• Diabetes
• HIV/AIDS
• Heart disease

Are There any Side Effects?
Side effects from the flu shot are mild. Some people feel sore at the spot where they got the shot.

There is no reason to worry. You cannot get the flu from the flu shot. The flu shot is made from dead flu virus that will not cause the flu.

You can get a flu shot at your doctor’s office or clinic. You may also be able to get a flu shot from your local health department, pharmacy, or your employer.

Find a Flu Clinic Near You
Use this flu clinic locator to find out where you can get a flu shot in your area.

What about cost?
Your flu shot is free if you have Medicare Part B. Most private health insurance plans also cover the flu shot.

Fight off the Flu
Here are some things you can do to keep from getting and spreading the flu:

• Stay away from people who are sick. If you are sick, stay home.
• Wash your hands often.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Drink lots of liquids.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Try not to touch your nose, mouth, or eyes.

Fight the flu and stay healthy with tips on eating healthy and getting active.

What do you want to do today?

If you are a parent, learn more about children and the flu.

Wash your hands with soap and water often.

Listen to this Podcast to learn more about protecting yourself and those around you by getting the flu shot.

Tell a friend about the flu shot.

Use the flu clinic locator to find out where you can get a flu shot.