National Influenza Vaccination Week kicks off December 2^nd and runs through December 8^th. This week is set aside to raise awareness about the importance of getting a flu vaccination and to remind people that it is not too late.   The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months old and older get a flu shot each year.

Getting a flu vaccine every year is the best way to prevent yourself and others from getting the flu. In a typical year, over 200,000 people nationally visit the hospital because of flu complications. Although sometimes the flu may be mistaken for a severe cold, it can have much more serious effects for the young, the elderly, and others with health conditions.

The CDC continues to reinforce that an annual flu vaccine is particularly important for persons at high risk for complications due to the flu or for those who have contact with people at high risk. People at high risk include young children, persons over 50 years of age, pregnant women, and people with chronic medical conditions. People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications should also get a flu vaccine each year.

Flu vaccines cannot give you the flu because they are made from killed or weakened influenza viruses.  When side effects do occur, they are generally mild and include redness and soreness at the injection site for the flu shot; occasionally sore throat, runny nose; and rarely, fever after the nasal spray vaccine. While these symptoms can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, they are mild and resolve quickly when compared to a case of the flu.

Getting a flu vaccine helps to protect your health as well as that of your family, friends, and others.  Recognize National Influenza Vaccination Week by getting your flu vaccine … to protect yourself and others!