Flu season is fast approaching. Have you gotten your flu vaccine? If not, get one today. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging everyone who is at least 6 months of age – especially older Americans – to get vaccinated this season. Those that should NOT get vaccinated include:

• Children younger than 6 months of age.
• People who have a severe allergy to chicken eggs.
• People who have had a severe reaction to a flu vaccination in the past.
• People with a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome. Your doctor will decide whether the vaccine is recommended for you.
• People who have a moderate-to-severe illness with a fever. If you have been sick, you should wait until fully recovered to get vaccinated.

Symptoms of the flu can include sneezing, fever, coughing, fatigue, runny nose and/or congestion and body aches. Once you have the flu, it can weaken the immune system, leaving the body more vulnerable to other serious infections such as bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, sinus problems or infections and worsening of preexisting conditions such as asthma or diabetes.

Flu vaccines are offered in many locations. Check with your doctor’s office, local health clinics, pharmacies, your employer, college health centers (for students) or senior centers.

Flu symptoms can come on quickly. Don’t wait until it’s too late. An annual seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others from the flu virus. Get your flu vaccine today.