Can the flu be prevented?
You can help prevent the
flu by getting the flu vaccine every year. It's best to get the vaccine as soon as it's available. You can get the
vaccine as a shot or in a spray that you breathe in through your nose.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months old and older should get a flu vaccine. The
vaccine is especially important for people who are at higher risk of problems
from the flu, including:1
- Children 6 months through 4 years of
age.
- Adults ages 50 and older.
- Adults and children who
have long-term health problems or an
.
- Women who will be
pregnant during the flu season.
The flu vaccine is also recommended for health care
workers and anyone who lives or works with a person who is at higher risk of
problems from the flu. Your doctor can help you decide if the flu vaccine is a
good choice for you.
The vaccine usually prevents most cases of
the flu. But even if you do get the flu after you've had the vaccine, your
symptoms will be milder and you'll have less chance of problems from the flu.
You cannot get the flu from the flu vaccine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learning about influenza (flu): | |
Being diagnosed: | |
Getting treatment: | |
Ongoing concerns: | |
Taking care of yourself: | |