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What does the flu shot protect against?
For 2011, one shot protected against H1N1 and two other flu viruses (an H3N2 virus and an influenza B virus).
Who should get the flu shot?
Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu shot each year.
Who should not get the flu shot?
Children younger than 6 months of age should not get the flu shot. (The flu vaccine is not approved for use in this age group.)
Some people first talk to their doctor. They are:
- People who have a severe allergy to chicken eggs.
- People who have had a severe reaction to an flu shot in the past.
- People who developed Guillian-Barré syndrome (GBS) within 6 weeks of getting a flu shot in the past.
- People who have a moderate or severe illness with a fever should wait to get vaccinated until their symptoms lessen.
If you have questions about whether you should get a flu shot, ask your doctor.
When should I get the flu shot?
Each year beginning in September, or as soon as the shot is available. The earlier you get your flu shot, the sooner you are protected from the flu virus.
What are symptoms of the flu?
People who have the flu often feel some or all of these:
- fever or feeling feverish/chills (not everyone with flu will have a fever)
- cough
- sore throat
- runny or stuffy nose
- muscle or body aches
- headaches
- fatigue (very tired)
- Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)
How do I prevent my family from catching the flu?
- The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu shot each year.
- Wash your hands often or use an alcohol hand rub.
- Don’t touch your nose, mouth and eyes because that’s how viruses get into your body.
- Stay away from people who are sick.
- Stay home from work, school and errand if you are sick.
- Practice a healthy lifestyle. Get plenty of sleep, regular exercise, drink lots of water and eat healthy foods.
- Cover your mouth when you cough. Cough into a tissue or into your sleeve.
Call your doctor or your local health department to see when you can get your flu shot.
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