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Information provided by Federal Occupational Health

Fight Off the Flu

Flu season is upon us. Getting your flu shot is like putting on armor to battle the flu bug. It also makes you a hero to others, because a flu shot protects them, too!

Who Should Get a Flu Shot

Many people do not realize that the flu—short for “influenza virus”—is a dangerous disease that kills thousands of people each year. Everyone 6 months old and older should get a flu vaccine annually. It’s especially important that people who are at high risk of having serious flu–related complications get vaccinated. These groups include the following: 

• Women who are pregnant
• Children under 5 years old
• People 50 years old and older
• People with weakened or malfunctioning immune systems
• People with certain chronic medical conditions, such as chronic lung disease, diabetes, and heart disease
• People who live in long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes

When to Get the Flu Shot

In the United States, flu season occurs in the fall and winter. The earlier you get your flu shot, the more time you give your body to build up defenses against the strains.

Where to Get the Flu Shot

Visit your health care provider or community center for a flu shot. You can also check if your work agency holds onsite flu clinics for employees.

Flu Prevention Strategies

Besides getting your flu shot, there are a variety of other things you can do to help protect yourself against the flu. Some of the easiest flu prevention strategies include:

• Wash your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands!
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Practice other good habits, including physical activity, proper nutrition and hydration, and adequate sleep.
• If you feel sick, stay home.
• Educate yourself about the symptoms of the flu.

Be a hero: get a flu shot and follow the above tips to shield yourself and your loved ones from a serious disease.