Protect Yourself

Protect yourself against the flu (also known as influenza) by getting a flu shot every year.

Different types of flu viruses infect the nose, throat, and lungs. The virus spreads in communities during flu season. Flu symptoms may include sore throat, body aches, and fever. Because flu viruses change over time, flu vaccines are updated each year.

Getting a flu shot every year protects you:

• You are less likely to get the flu
• You are less likely to become severely ill if you do get the flu

Everyone should get a flu shot each year, especially:

• People age 65 and older
• Residents of nursing homes or long-term care facilities
• People with serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, asthma, lung disease, or HIV

Fall is the best time to get a flu shot because flu season usually begins in the fall and continues through winter. If you did not get vaccinated in the fall, you can and should get the vaccine at any time during the flu season.  

Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about vaccine availability. A new flu vaccine becomes available each year in early fall.

Last Updated April 2026