Seasonal Flu Information
 Influenza (flu) is a respiratory illness that can be serious, sometimes leading to hospitalization and even death. Getting a flu vaccine is the single best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from flu, along with some other important steps.
Prevent Getting and Spreading the Flu
Get your flu vaccine every year.
- Health experts now recommend that all people 6 months of age and older get a flu shot.
- Flu vaccine comes as an injection or nasal spray. Talk to your healthcare provider about which type is best for you.
- You cannot get the flu from the flu vaccine.
- You need a flu shot every year.
- The 2011-2012 flu vaccine will protect against H1N1 and two other flu strains.
- It’s best to get the flu shot in the fall to ensure it’s working during flu season (generally October through March in the U.S.), but getting the shot late is better than not at all.
- The flu vaccine is safe. Over the years, hundreds of millions of Americans have received seasonal flu vaccines. More about vaccine safety.
- Parents Video Q&A- Nationwide Children's Hospital
Wash your hands.
- Use soap and warm water, washing for at least 20 seconds. Alcohol-based hand cleaners also work (with at least 60% alcohol) when you can’t wash your hands.
Cover your cough.
- Use the sleeve of your clothes, elbow or shoulder to cover your cough or sneeze.
Stay home if you're sick.
- Anyone with flu symptoms should stay home from school, work or childcare.
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