AACE Advancing Immunization Quality Improvement Communication Platform-Flu Vaccine Facts

Flu Vaccine Facts - Education Material

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Getting a flu vaccine every year is the best way to protect yourself against the flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), along with public health professionals, recommend that everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine. Not only does it reduce the risk of flu illnesses, but it also helps prevent serious complications that can result in hospitalization or death. Recent studies have shown that flu vaccination can reduce the risk of flu illness by 40% to 60% when the circulating flu viruses are well-matched to the flu vaccine. While some people who are vaccinated may still get sick, their illness tends to be less severe. Flu vaccination is especially important for those at higher risk, such as children under 5, pregnant individuals, adults aged 65 and older, and people with chronic health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and asthma. Flu vaccines have a proven safety record, and side effects are generally mild compared to the symptoms of flu. It's important to get vaccinated not only for your own protection but also to help protect those around you, including those who are at higher risk. For more information, you can visit the CDC's website at www.cdc.gov/flu.

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