Adults 65 and older should be among the first to get their flu shots, and should also be vaccinated against pneumococcal disease, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced at a recent press conference the eve of flu season.

Older people can become very sick if they get the flu, which is caused by a virus (this virus is NOT the same as the cause of Avian or bird flu) or pneumococcal infections, which are caused by bacteria. Pneumococcal infections can cause pneumonia and deadly infections of the blood and brain. Together, the two infectious diseases kill 40,000 Americans-most of them 65 and older-each year.

Flu shots were in short supply last year, and it's still not clear how much flu vaccine will be available this season. So the CDC has asked that older adults, health care workers, other vulnerable adults and children, and those who care for them, be given priority for flu shots from now through October 24. After that date, the vaccine should be made available to everyone, the CDC advised. Here's what you need to know:

Who should get a flu shot?

• Those 65-years-old or older
• Nursing home residents
• Anyone with a serious health condition like heart disease, diabetes, asthma or lung disease
• People with HIV
• Pregnant women
• Children younger than 2-years-old.

Do NOT get a flu shot if you are:

• Allergic to eggs
• Have had an allergic reaction to flu shots in the past
• Have had Guillian-Barre Syndrome
• If you're severely ill or have a fever, wait until you're feeling better to get your shot.

Who should get a pneumococcal shot?
Anyone who needs a flu shot should also get a pneumococcal shot.

When should I get the flu shot?

• Anytime between October and December for the flu shot.
• The pneumococcal vaccine can be given at any time. It takes about two weeks for the vaccines to become fully effective.

How often should I get vaccinated?

• You need a flu shot every year.
• If you're 65 or older, you only need to get a pneumococcal shot once.
• If you have an immune system problem, or had a pneumococcal shot before age 65, you will need a "booster" shot after five years. Talk with your doctor about this.

Where can I get these shots?
You can get them from your doctor, and, in some cases from employers, or senior or community centers.

Will Medicare cover the cost?
Medicare Part B and Medicaid cover both shots.

What else can I do to protect myself from flu and pneumococcal disease?

• Wash your hands -- use soap and hot water or an alcohol-based, no-rinse hand sanitizer. Bacteria and viruses, such as the flu virus, often spread when people touch something contaminated and then touch their eyes, noses or mouths.
• Avoid close contact with those who are sick - and keep your distance from others when you're the one who's sick.
• Cover your mouth and nose - it's best to use a tissue to block the germs that can spread through coughing and sneezing.