An annual flu vaccine is recommended for almost everyone 6 months and older.

It is one of the best ways to reduce flu illnesses, hospitalizations and death from flu. Vaccination is the best defense against the flu.

The flu is not just a really bad cold. The flu is a contagious illness that affects the nose, throat, lungs,

and other parts of the body. It can spread quickly from one person to another. It can cause mild to severe illness

and, at times, can lead to death.

Unlike a cold, flu symptoms start suddenly. They appear about 1 to 4 days after a person is exposed to the flu.

Flu symptoms may include:

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills
• Muscle or body aches
• Cough
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Tiredness
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Vomiting or diarrhea (typically more common in children)

Some people are at high risk for serious complications from the flu.

This includes: older people, pregnant women, young children and people with certain health conditions.

Three of the nation’s leading, non-profit health organizations – the American Lung Association,

the American Diabetes Association and the American Heart Association

urge adults living with chronic disease to prioritize getting an annual flu vaccine.

Flu shots are available locally at retail pharmacies, the local health department and from local

physician practices.

Here are several links to current vaccine availabilities.

https://www.vaccines.gov/find-vaccines/
https://www.nyuhs.org/care-treatment/primary-care
https://www.nyuhs.org/news-search/uhs-offers-flu-shots-appointment