Flu season is here – are you ready?

Before the 2017-2018 flu season approaches, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals ages six months and older get vaccinated.

“Getting an annual flu vaccine is the first and best way to protect yourself and your family from the flu,” according to the CDC. “Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related

hospitalizations.”

The flu season typically begins in October and peaks in December. The CDC is recommending injectable flu shots, as opposed to other products on the market. Higher dosages are recommended for adults and children ages six months to eight years require two doses of the vaccine, according to CDC.

“You should get a flu vaccine now, if you haven’t gotten one already this season,” according to the CDC. “It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body that protect against flu. CDC recommends that people get a flu vaccine by the end of October, if possible. Getting vaccinated later, however, can still be beneficial and vaccination should continue to be offered throughout the flu season, even into January or later.”

According to the CDC, between 9.2 million and 35.6 million cases of influenza have been reported each year since 2010. Additionally, from 140,000 to 710,000 people have been hospitalized and 12,000 to 56,000 have died as a result of the flu annually since 2010.

Those who have the flu are recommended to stay home and avoid contact with others. In the case of serious illness, contact a healthcare provider; they may be able to prescribe you an antiviral.

To learn more, visit cdc.gov/flu.