Help prevent influenza by getting a flu shot

Certain high-risk groups are more likely to develop serious flu-related complications, including hospitalization. If you or a loved one falls into one of these groups, getting a yearly flu shot is especially important.

People with greater chances of having severe complications from the flu include:

• Children younger than 5 years old
• Adults ages 65 and older
• People who are pregnant
• People with chronic (long-term) health conditions
• People who live in care facilities

Babies younger than 6 months cannot get a flu shot. To help protect them from the flu, parents, caregivers and other close contacts should stay up to date on their flu vaccinations.

The best flu prevention starts with getting a flu shot. The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommends an annual flu shot for everyone ages 6 months and older. 

• If you're a ProHealth patient, call your doctor's office to book a time to get your flu shot. Or schedule online.
• If you're not a patient, you can find a location to get a flu shot near you.

In addition to getting a flu shot, these tips can help lower your chances of catching or spreading the flu:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Don't touch your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or cover your nose and mouth with a tissue.
• Try to stay away from others if you're sick.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that may be infected.