The flu is different from a cold! Influenza usually comes on suddenly. Getting vaccinated means not only protecting yourself, but not spreading the flu to your spouse, children, or grandchildren.
The CDC recommends getting the vaccine as soon as it becomes available in your community because it takes the body about two weeks to build up immunity.
- Yearly Seasonal Flu vaccination remains the best defense against severe illness and death associated with influenza.
- Seasonal Flu illnesses tend to peak in February or March, however influenza continues into April or May. Vaccination should continue throughout flu season.
- Influenza often leads to pneumonia; for most adults aged 65 or older, a one-time dose of pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccine is recommended.
- Seasonal influenza and pneumococcal vaccines may be given at the same time.