This vaccine decreases your risk of catching the flu, also known as influenza.
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an upper respiratory infection. It is caused by one of the influenza viruses. Some people may have an increased risk of serious complications if they catch the flu. This can include those who are:
Serious complications can happen even in people who are healthy. New flu vaccines are made each year to protect against the influenza viruses that are current at that time.
Serious complications can happen even in people who are healthy. New flu vaccines are made each year to protect against the influenza viruses that are current at that time.
The flu vaccine can be given as a shot or nasal spray. However, the nasal spray should not be given to the following people:
The nasal spray is also not recommended for caregivers of certain people with a severely weakened immune system. Check with your health care provider to see if you are eligible for the flu vaccine nasal spray.
Important note: Getting the flu vaccine every year is the best way to protect you from getting the flu. It's also the best way to stop you from spreading the flu to the people you love.
Each year's updated version of the influenza vaccine typically becomes available during the late summer. However, immunizations given as late as March can still protect you from catching the flu late in the season.
Most people only need one dose of the flu vaccine each year. If your child is age 9 or younger, check with your health care provider to see if two doses are needed. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people ages 6 months and older receive a flu vaccine UNLESS there are specific medical reasons for not receiving it. These include:
You may want to wait to get the vaccine if you have a moderate to severe illness (not just a cold). However, if you have a stuffy nose, you may need the flu shot instead of the nasal spray.
You may want to wait to get the vaccine if you have a moderate to severe illness (not just a cold). However, if you have a stuffy nose, you may need the flu shot instead of the nasal spray.
Some people are at an increased risk for complications if they get the flu. It's even more important these individuals get the flu vaccine. Those at increased risk include:
It's important to remember that each year people die from flu complications, even though they had no known risk factors.
You should contact your health care provider if it's flu season and you have not received your yearly flu vaccine. Here is a list of questions you can ask during your appointment:
Many local pharmacies and convenience care clinics provide flu shots.
Source UHC.com
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