The flu shot is your best defense
The flu shot is your best defense
The flu shot is recommended for everyone 6 months old and older. It is:
- safe (including for kids and if you are pregnant or breastfeeding)
- free
- proven to reduce the number of clinic visits, hospitalizations and deaths related to the flu
- different each year because the virus changes frequently – so you need to get it every fall
Flu season typically runs from late fall to early spring. Be sure to get your shot as soon as it is available because it takes two weeks to take effect.
Tips to avoid getting – and spreading – the flu
Wash your hands often
- even after getting the flu shot, washing with soap and water for at least 15 seconds helps keep the virus from spreading
- if soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer (gel or wipes) with at least 60% alcohol
Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze
- use a tissue and throw it out rather than putting it in your pocket, on a desk or table
- if you don’t have a tissue, cough into your upper sleeve
Don’t touch your face
the flu virus spreads when people with the flu cough, sneeze or talk and droplets enter your body through your eyes, nose or mouth