12/08/2016
Don't spend the holidays sick in bed with the flu! While New Hampshire saw its first confirmed case of influenza in late September, flu activity is usually highest between December and February and can last through May. As long as there are active cases in your area, it's not too late to get vaccinated.
An annual flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your family from this serious disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone six months of age and older including pregnant women and people who have chronic health conditions. Vaccination to prevent influenza is particularly important for people who are at high risk for serious complications from influenza.
Not to worry - the flu shot cannot cause flu illness as the vaccine is either made with virus that is "inactivate" or with no flu viruses at all. The most common side effects from the influenza shot are soreness, redness, tenderness or swelling where the shot was given. Low-grade fever, headache and muscle aches also may occur.
Flu can be a serious disease, particularly among young children, older adults, and people with certain chronic health conditions, such as asthma, heart disease or diabetes. Please talk to your health care provider if you have any questions about the flu vaccine.
Answer a few question to test your knowledge of influenza. Visit www.cdc.gov/flu to learn more.