The Center for Disease Control (CDC) is asking for more individuals to be immunized this year against influenza, most commonly known as “the flu.” According to the CDC,
- % to 20% of the population get the flu;
- More than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications, including 20,000 children; and
- About 36,000 people die from flu.
The very best way for anyone to avoid the flu is by getting your flu shot. But there are several groups of that the CDD highly recommends should be vaccinated:
- Children 6 months through 18 years of age,
- Pregnant women,
- People 50 years of age and older,
- People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions, and
- People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities.
In addition, anyone who lives with or is a caregiver of one of the above should also be immunized against the flu.
You can get your flu shot at a variety of places: local clinics, your physicians office and even some drug stores and pharmacies are giving shots at a nominal price. You will do yourself a favor if you get it now before it’s too late.