FACES OF INFLUENZA ® - American Lung Association's Influenza Prevention Program in Collaboration with sanofi pasteur

Influenza Immunization

The best way to reduce the effects of influenza is through annual vaccination. A flu shot is safe and effective, and the best way to help prevent influenza. Although mild side effects from vaccination are possible (eg, local soreness or redness, headache, etc), a person cannot get influenza from the flu shot.¹

Different strains of influenza often circulate each year. This is why flu vaccine is produced every year to match these specific strains and help stop their ability to cause infection. Since the viruses that circulate often change each season, it is important to get your flu shot each season to have the best protection.¹

The American Lung Association urges you and your loved ones to get vaccinated every flu season. You can receive your flu vaccine as soon as it becomes available, which can be as early as late summer or early fall. Even if you didn't get vaccinated early in the flu season, immunization into the spring or as long as the influenza virus is in circulation can be beneficial. This is because in many seasons, influenza activity doesn’t peak until winter or early spring. In fact, as long as influenza viruses are in circulation, it's a good idea to get vaccinated. For most adults, the vaccine can help protect against influenza within 2 weeks.¹

Unfortunately influenza immunization rates fall far short of public health goals every year – even among those at highest risk. The CDC recommends annual influenza immunization for everyone 6 months of age and older. The recommendation reinforces annual vaccination as a public healthy priority and highlights the need for people to talk to their health care provider about the vaccine option that’s right for them and their family this influenza season. Getting vaccinated against the flu each year is one of the most important steps people can take to help protect themselves from the flu. Even healthy people need a flu shot – to help stay healthy and to help prevent the spread of flu to others. Groups at higher risk of developing influenza-related complications include:¹

Additionally, those who come into close contact with someone at high risk should get vaccinated not only to help protect themselves against influenza, but also to help avoid spreading the disease to more vulnerable populations. They include:¹

Note: Children 6 months through 8 years of age receiving a flu shot for the first time need two doses approximately one month apart for optimal protection.¹

Some people should not get the influenza vaccine or should first talk with their health care provider. These include:¹

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