The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older receive a flu vaccination as early as possible once the vaccine becomes available. Healthy children ages 2 to 8 may be better protected by receiving the nasal spray vaccine rather than a flu shot. Because the body’s antibodies to the influenza virus decrease over time, you should get vaccinated this year even if you received a flu shot last year. The following populations are at greater risk of flu-related complications and should be vaccinated:
- Children younger than 5
- Adults 65 and older
- Pregnant women
- American Indian and Alaskan Natives
- Those with chronic health conditions including asthma, neurological conditions, chronic lung disease, blood disorders, heart disease, kidney, liver or metabolic disorders, weakened immune system from disease or medication, and those who have a BMI greater than 40.
Do not get a flu shot if:
- You have allergies to any part of the vaccine or have had an allergic reaction to the vaccine in the past.
- You have ever had Guillain-Barré Syndrome.
- You are currently sick.
