Why should people get vaccinated against the flu?
The “flu season” in the United States is usually from November through April each year. During this time, flu viruses are circulating in the population. An annual seasonal flu vaccine provides the best way to reduce the chances that you will get seasonal flu and lessens the chance that you will spread it to others. When more people get vaccinated against the flu, less flu can spread through that community.

Influenza is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. Every flu season is different, and influenza infection can affect people differently. Even healthy people can get very sick from the flu and spread it to others. Studies going back to 1976 have found that flu-related deaths ranged from a low of 4,700 to a high of 56,600 (average 25,500).

Show All Answers

1. How do I know that I have the flu?
2. How does the flu spread?
3. How long is a person with flu virus contagious?
4. Can the flu be treated?
5. Why should people get vaccinated against the flu?
6. When should I get a flu vaccine?
7. How do flu vaccines work?
8. Is the “stomach flu” really the flu?
9. How many people get the flu each year?
10. Do other respiratory viruses circulate during the flu season?
11. How soon will I get sick if I’m exposed to the flu?
12. How do scientists determine which strains to protect against in a flu vaccine?
13. Can a flu vaccine give you the flu?
14. Why do I feel sick after getting a flu shot?
15. Why did I still get sick even after I got a flu shot?
16. Do I need to get a flu vaccine every year, or will the immunity carry over from last year’s vaccine?
17. Is it ever too early or too late to get a flu vaccine?
18. How can I learn more about the progress of the flu season?