On average, healthy people who get the flu miss a week of school, work or vacation days.

The flu virus changes frequently and affects everyone differently. You never know when a bad case of the flu will hit you.

Who should get a flu shot?

• Any healthy child over 6 months old, adolescent, or adult.
• Anyone with chronic cardiac or pulmonary (lung) disorders such as, cystic fibrosis or asthma.
• Any resident of a nursing home, chronic care or long-term care facility.
• All health care providers, including students, volunteers, support staff, and home care workers.
• Anyone who falls into one or more of these categories:
  1. Compromised immune system
  2. Transplant recipient
  3. Chronic medical condition such as: diabetes, HIV, cancer, anemia, or renal disease.

Is the flu shot safe for everyone?
Yes, but a flu shot should not be given to the following people:

• Babies less than 6 months old.
• Anyone who has had an anaphylactic (serious) reaction to a previous flu vaccine.
• Anyone with a serious allergy to eggs (hives, trouble breathing, swelling of the mouth or throat after eating eggs).
• Anyone who is acutely ill, with a fever at the time of the shot.
• Anyone with a history of Guillian-Barre Syndrome should talk to their doctor before getting the shot.

Can pregnant and breastfeeding women get a flu shot?
The vaccine is considered safe for women at all stages of pregnancy, and for breastfeeding mothers.

How effective is the flu shot?

• Protection develops about two weeks after getting the shot and lasts 4 to 6 months.
• 70-90% effective in healthy adults.
• 62-73% effective in children.
• In the elderly it can prevent pneumonia and hospitalization in 6 out of 10 people.
• You are protected during the peak of the season if you wait until November to get the shot.

Can I get the flu if I get a flu shot?
No. The vaccine does not contain a live flu virus. Many people confuse a bad cold with the flu. The shot does not prevent colds.

What can I expect when I go to a flu clinic?

• If the clinic is busy, you may have to wait a while before receiving your shot.
• You may be asked about your general health.
• You will be asked if you have any allergies.
• You will be asked to wait for 15 minutes before leaving the clinic.

Are there any side effects to the flu shot?
Most people have little or not side effects. Some people experience:

• Soreness, redness or swelling at where the shot was given.
• Fever or muscle aches 1 to 2 days after getting the shot.

Anyone who experiences the symptoms listed below should seek immediate medical attention:

• Hives
• Swelling of the mouth or throat.
• Trouble breathing, hoarseness or wheezing.
• Paleness, weakness, a fast heartbeat or dizziness.
• Any other unusual condition or serious reaction to the vaccine