Flu Facts & Prevention

Prevent the flu 

• An annual flu shot is the best way to protect yourself from the flu.
• Stay home and limit contact with others if you are sick.
• Wash hands with soap and water. Use an alcohol based hand rub if soap and water are not available.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue out when you are done.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may have flu germs on them.

Who should get the flu shot? 

Everyone 6 months and older should get the flu shot. The flu is a serious illness that kills. Last year, over 80,000 Americans died from the flu (CDC). 

Can I get the flu from the flu shot? 

No, the flu vaccine contains inactivated (killed) flu virus. According to the CDC, the risk of a severe reaction is less than 1 in 4 million. 

When should I get the flu shot? 

The CDC recommends that you get your flu shot before the end of October. Flu season usually peaks in January or February. Early immunization is the most effective, but it is not too late to get the vaccine in December, January, or beyond. 

How effective is the flu shot? 

Recent CDC studies show that flu vaccination reduces the risk of flu illness by between 40% and 60% among the overall population during seasons when most circulating flu viruses are well-matched to the flu vaccine. The flu shot is the best protection from the flu and reduces the severity and risks of complications if you do get sick with the flu.