Protect Yourself From the Flu

Pregnant Moms

Pregnancy can put you and your baby at higher risk for flu and related complications. Getting a flu shot can help protect you and your baby. Speak to your doctor about keeping your growing family healthy.

Children and Families

Young children have a higher risk of health problems from the flu. Most providers recommend that children get their first flu shot starting at six months of age. For children under 9 years old, the initial vaccine should be given in two doses spaced at least 4 weeks apart According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). After the first year of receiving the flu vaccine, children typically only need one vaccine per year. Talk to your child’s doctor about keeping them safe from the flu.

People with a Chronic Condition or Caregivers

Flu can make chronic health problems worse. Those conditions can include diabetes, asthma or heart disease. Flu vaccines can help protect from flu and related complications. Talk with your doctor about how you can stay healthy this flu season.

Seniors or Those Who Care for Them

Our immune systems weaken with age. People aged 65 and older have more risk for health issues from the flu. If you’re a senior or live with seniors, a flu shot may help protect you all. Talk with a doctor about how you and those around you can stay safe from flu this year.

What is the Flu (Influenza)?

• Flu is a respiratory illness that spreads easily. Viruses infect the nose, throat and sometimes lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness. At times it can lead to death.

Why are flu vaccines recommended every flu season?

• Flu viruses are always changing. Scientists predict which virus will be most common each year. Flu vaccines change each flu season to make them work as well as possible.
• Protection from the flu shot gets weaker over time. That’s why a yearly flu vaccine is recommended for most people.

Can the flu vaccine give me the flu?

No. According to the CDC, “flu vaccines either contain inactivated virus, meaning the viruses are no longer infectious, or a particle designed to look like a flu virus to your immune system. While the nasal spray does contain a live virus, the viruses are changed so that they cannot give you the flu.” That means getting a flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. But it can lower your chances of catching or getting very ill from the flu.

When and where should you get your flu shot?

• Talk with your doctor. Most doctors recommend getting your vaccine by the end of October if possible. Even if you do it later, it still helps protect you.
• You can get your flu vaccine in many doctor’s offices. You may also be able to get vaccinated in pharmacies*, clinics and health centers. Sometimes schools and workplaces offer vaccines.

How do you know if someone has the flu?

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

• Fever** or feeling feverish/chills.
• Cough.
• Sore throat.
• Runny or stuffy nose.
• Muscle or body aches.
• Headaches.
• Tiredness.
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea. This is more common in children than adults.

**It is important to note that not everyone with
flu will have a fever. 

Where should you go if you have flu symptoms?

Visit your doctor or urgent care or call your health plan’s nurse advice line with questions. You can also ask about medications that could help you feel better faster. Unless you have a very high fever or trouble breathing, you should not need to go to the emergency room for the flu