The single best way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year.

On February 24, 2010 vaccine experts voted that everyone six-months and older should get a flu vaccine each year starting with the 2010-2011 influenza season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted for “universal” flu vaccination in the U.S. to expand protection against the flu to more people.

While everyone should get a flu vaccine each flu season, it’s especially important that caregivers get the flu shot! Here’s why:

1. A flu vaccine is the best way to protect against the flu.
2. Infants less than 6-months-old are at high risk for serious flu-related complications, but cannot get a vaccine or antiviral drugs.
3. If you live with or care for an infant less than 6-months-of age, you should get a flu vaccine.
4. This season, an all-time high supply of vaccine will be available so more people than ever can seek protection from the flu as soon as the vaccine becomes available.

The flu shot does not cause the flu! The flu shot is an inactivated vaccine (containing killed virus) that is given with a needle, usually in the arm. The flu shot is approved for use in people older than 6-months, including healthy people, and people with chronic medical conditions.