Nobody wants to get sick — especially with the flu. Flu, which is short for influenza, is a respiratory virus that affects people differently. It can be mild or severe, and symptoms can include a sudden fever, cough, headache, muscle and joint pain, sore throat, runny nose and just a general feeling of being unwell.
Every year, people die from the flu. During the 2022-2023 flu season, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) believe that this contagious virus played a role in 19,000 to 58,000 deaths. Flu also led to 300,000 to 650,000 hospitalizations and 12 to 26 million medical visits.
It could have been far worse. Flu vaccination helped to protect many people last year. The CDC estimates that adults who were vaccinated against the flu were 43% less likely to be hospitalized because of the flu or flu complications. More specifically, older adults 65 and up were 35% less likely to be hospitalized and people 18 to 64 were 51% less likely to be hospitalized.
As flu season approaches, it’s important to educate yourself on the flu, vaccination and take precautions that could keep you healthy. Here are six facts that everyone should know.
- There are key months to be aware of when it comes to the flu. Generally speaking, flu “season” runs October through May, with cases peaking December through February, says the CDC. However, the virus can strike at any time. The best time to get vaccinated is September or October, says the CDC, although some people can be vaccinated as early as July and August. If you miss those dates, don’t let it deter you. The flu vaccine can help protect you throughout the season.
- Almost everyone should get the flu shot. In fact, the CDC recommends that everyone six months of age and older should be immunized against the flu. Vaccination is especially important for high-risk people (adults older than 65, children younger than 2, people with certain chronic health conditions, pregnant people; see an expanded list here), as well as health care workers and those who live with or care for high-risk people. Exceptions of people who should be vaccinated include children younger than six months, people with severe allergies to an ingredient in a flu shot and people who have experienced allergic reactions to flu vaccines in the past. See more here.
- Flu vaccines change every year, so it’s important to be immunized each season. The composition of the vaccine is based on intelligence gathered in late February or early March by the World Health Organization, the Food and Drug Administration, the CDC and other experts who collect data from around the world and predict which viruses are most likely to circulate and cause illness during the upcoming season. The goal is to select the strains in order to design a vaccine that offers the most protection to the most people.
- There are different types of flu vaccines. While many people think of the flu “shot,” a nasal spray is also available, as well as a number of different injection options. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about which one is best for you.
- The flu vaccine will not give you the flu. It simply cannot transmit the virus and cause illness. However, some people who are vaccinated may experience side effects, which can include a headache, fever, nausea, muscle aches and soreness from the shot. These are usually mild, and don’t last long. If you’re worried that you may feel ill, schedule your vaccine at a time when you can take it easy for a day or so after.
- In addition to vaccination, people can take steps that will help keep themselves and their families safe from the flu. Wash your hands frequently; avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes; stay home if you don’t feel well; and keep your distance from sick people. Read more on those steps here.
Every year, about half of the U.S. population chooses to get their flu vaccine. In doing so, they’re helping to protect themselves and their community by taking action to stop the spread. Consider doing your part this year. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the different options for immunization against the flu.
