Why you and your loved one should get a flu shot
The flu shot protects against the most common flu strains each season. That’s why it’s so important to get a new one each year. A shot lowers your chances of getting a severe case of the flu.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests a flu shot for almost everyone 6 months and up. It’s very important for people 65 and older and those with health conditions like diabetes and heart or lung disease.
Where to get a flu shot:
- Doctor’s office
- Retail or urgent care clinic
- Pharmacy
- Local health department
The flu shot for people over 65
The flu is a serious disease that spreads easily from person to person. It can make healthy people sick and existing health problems worse. That’s especially true for those 65 and older. Getting a flu shot is the single best way to protect yourself and those you care about against the flu, the CDC says.
If you or the person you care for is over 65, ask your doctor whether a pneumonia shot also is needed. There are new guidelines, and doctors now suggest that many people get two types of pneumonia vaccines. So even if you’ve had a pneumonia vaccine in the past, you may still need another one.
Learn more about flu prevention
