The Flu Shot. Just the Facts.

Yes, you need a flu shot, too!

With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, getting a flu vaccine will be more important than ever. Flu vaccines will not prevent COVID-19, but they will reduce the burden of flu illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths on the health care system.

Below you will find frequently asked questions regarding the flu shot. I

Why should I get the flu vaccine?

Flu vaccination has important benefits such as reducing flu illnesses, doctors’ visits, and missed time at work and school.

What age group should get the flu vaccine?

There are flu shots approved for use in children as young as 6 months old and in adults 65 years and older.

Which flu vaccine should I get?

There are many vaccine options to choose from. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend one flu vaccine over another. The most important thing is for all people 6 months of age and older to get a flu vaccine every year.

How does the flu shot work?

Flu vaccines cause antibodies to develop in the body about two weeks after vaccination. These antibodies provide protection against infection with the viruses that are used to make the vaccine.

What do I do if I’m at high risk for developing flu complications?

Vaccination is particularly important for people who are at high risk of serious complications from influenza. When you get vaccinated, you reduce your risk of getting sick with the flu and possibly being hospitalized or dying. Flu shots are also recommended and approved for use in pregnant women and people with certain chronic health conditions.

Check out the full list of age and health factors for those at high risk of developing flu-related complications.

Are there other options besides a shot?

The nasal spray flu vaccine is approved for use in non-pregnant individuals who are 2 years through 49 years of age. People with certain medical conditions should not receive the nasal spray flu vaccine.