{"id":766,"date":"2016-01-22T14:22:55","date_gmt":"2016-01-22T19:22:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/epidemiology\/?page_id=766"},"modified":"2026-09-17T16:17:07","modified_gmt":"2026-09-17T20:17:07","slug":"influenza-prevention-protect-yourself-and-others-from-getting-the-flu","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/epidemiology\/influenza-flu-in-virginia\/influenza-prevention-protect-yourself-and-others-from-getting-the-flu\/","title":{"rendered":"Prevent the Flu"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"pl-766\"  class=\"panel-layout\" ><div id=\"pg-766-0\"  class=\"panel-grid panel-no-style\" ><div id=\"pgc-766-0-0\"  class=\"panel-grid-cell\" ><div id=\"panel-766-0-0-0\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child\" data-index=\"0\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<h1>Flu Vaccination<\/h1>\n<p><strong>The best way to protect you and your loved ones from the flu is to get a flu vaccine every year. This page has information and resources to help answer your questions about flu vaccines.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-766-0-0-1\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"1\" ><div id=\"vaccine\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-766-0-0-1\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<h3><span class=\"TextRun SCXW15480157 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW15480157 BCX8\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">Reasons to get a flu vaccine<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW15480157 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:40,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Vaccination can reduce your chance of getting the flu and spreading it to others<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you do get the flu, vaccination can reduce the severity of your illness and prevent hospitalization<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">When more people get vaccinated, less flu illness can spread through the community<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-766-0-0-2\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"2\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Who should get a flu vaccine?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:40,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Everyone aged six months and older should get a flu shot <\/span><\/b><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">every year, <a href=\"#noflu\">with few exceptions<\/a>.<\/span><\/b><strong> <span class=\"TextRun SCXW239675264 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW239675264 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Strong\">Talk to a healthcare provider about which flu vaccines are recommended for you and your family.<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Vaccination is especially important for people at increased <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">risk of serious complications<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> from the flu.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">People at increased risk include:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"13\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Adults aged 65 years and older<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"13\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Children younger than two years old<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"13\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Pregnant women<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"13\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">People with asthma, diabetes, and heart or lung disease or other <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/highrisk\/index.htm\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">chronic medical conditions<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"13\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">People with a weakened immune system (immunocompromised)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It is also important for people who live or care for people at increased risk to get vaccinated. A caregiver can include:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"12\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Healthcare workers<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"12\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Anyone who lives with someone at increased risk<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"12\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Anyone who takes care of someone at increased risk, like family members who take care of young children or infants<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"12\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">People who work in long-term care facilities\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Visit <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/highrisk\/index.htm\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">CDC\u2019s flu webpage<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> for a full list of people who are at increased risk for developing complications from the flu.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-766-0-0-3\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"3\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">When to get your flu vaccine?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:40,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW1011499 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1011499 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Strong\"><strong>Ideally, everyone should be vaccinated against influenza by the end of October.<\/strong> <\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW1011499 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1011499 BCX8\">September and October are<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1011499 BCX8\">generally good<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1011499 BCX8\"> times <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1011499 BCX8\">to get vaccinated. <span class=\"TrackChangeTextInsertion TrackedChange SCXW51352404 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW51352404 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW51352404 BCX8\">However, the flu vaccine can still be beneficial well into the season\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><span class=\"TrackChangeTextInsertion TrackedChange SCXW51352404 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW51352404 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW51352404 BCX8\">as long as<\/span><\/span><\/span><span class=\"TrackChangeTextInsertion TrackedChange SCXW51352404 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW51352404 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW51352404 BCX8\">\u00a0the virus is circulating<\/span><\/span><\/span><span class=\"TrackChangeTextInsertion TrackedChange SCXW51352404 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW51352404 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW51352404 BCX8\">. <\/span><\/span><\/span>Certain groups of people may need to get it earlier<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1011499 BCX8\">.\u00a0 <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1011499 BCX8\">Talk to your healthcare provider to see <\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW1011499 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/vaccines\/keyfacts.html#cdc_generic_section_2-flu-vaccine-options\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW1011499 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1011499 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">when you should get your flu vaccine<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW1011499 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW1011499 BCX8\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW1011499 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"11\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Some children<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\"><strong> need two doses of flu vaccine.<\/strong> For those children it is recommended to get the first dose as soon as vaccine is available, because the second dose needs to be given at least four weeks after the first. Vaccination during July and August can also be considered for children who need only one dose and have health care visits during these months.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0Talk to a healthcare provider if you have questions about flu vaccination for your children.<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"11\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Most adults, especially those 65 years and older, and pregnant people in the first or second trimester<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"none\"> should generally not get vaccinated early, in July or August, because protection may decrease over time. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"11\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Pregnant women<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> who are in their third trimester can get a flu vaccine in July or August to ensure their babies are protected from flu after birth when they are too young to get vaccinated.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>It is important to get a flu vaccine every year.<\/strong><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> People\u2019s protection from vaccination declines over time, so yearly flu vaccine increases your protection. Also, flu viruses change often, so vaccines are updated each year to protect you from the flu viruses that are expected to be the most common during that flu season. You can also get your flu vaccine at the same time as other vaccines, like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/vaccines\/coadministration.html\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">COVID-19<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-766-0-0-4\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"4\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Where to get your flu vaccine?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:40,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">You can get your flu shot at many different locations, like your doctor\u2019s office or local clinic. You can also check your college\/university health center. If you don\u2019t have a regular health care provider, you can get a flu shot at a health department or pharmacy.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW40233015 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW40233015 BCX8\">Search for a flu shot provider with<\/span> <\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW40233015 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/immunization\/provider-locator\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"FieldRange SCXW40233015 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW40233015 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW40233015 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">VDH\u2019s Vaccine Provider Locator<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW40233015 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW40233015 BCX8\"> or contact your <\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW40233015 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/local-health-districts\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW40233015 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW40233015 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">local health department.<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW40233015 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW40233015 BCX8\">\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW40233015 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-766-0-0-5\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"5\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Types of flu vaccines<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:40,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">There are several vaccine options to choose from each flu season. Different vaccines are approved for different age groups and some vaccines are not recommended for some groups of people.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Flu Shot<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:360,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The flu vaccine, also known as the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/vaccines\/?CDC_AAref_Val=https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/prevent\/flushot.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">flu shot,<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> is usually given in the arm with a needle.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:360,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The flu shot can be used in people aged six months or older, including people with chronic medical conditions.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:360,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\">The flu shot does not cause the flu.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Nasal Spray Vaccine<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:360,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/vaccine-types\/nasalspray.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/prevent\/nasalspray.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">nasal spray flu vaccine<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> is made with weakened live flu viruses and is given as a nasal spray. The viruses in the nasal spray vaccine do not cause the flu.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:360,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The nasal spray vaccine can be used in people aged two through 49 years of age who are not immunocompromised, pregnant, or have certain medical conditions.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Visit the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/vaccine-types\/?CDC_AAref_Val=https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/prevent\/different-flu-vaccines.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">CDC webpage<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> to learn more about the different type of flu vaccines.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-766-0-0-6\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"6\" ><div id=\"thisyear\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-766-0-0-6\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><a id=\"thisyear\"><\/a>2026-2027 Flu Vaccine Updates<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW3174399 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW3174399 BCX8\">Flu viruses are constantly changing. U.S. flu vaccines\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW3174399 BCX8\">are<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW3174399 BCX8\">\u00a0reviewed every year by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW3174399 BCX8\">\u00a0(FDA)<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW3174399 BCX8\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW3174399 BCX8\">and\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW3174399 BCX8\">updated to best match the flu viruses\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW3174399 BCX8\">that are predicted to be the\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW3174399 BCX8\">most common during the upcoming\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW3174399 BCX8\">flu\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW3174399 BCX8\">season.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The 2026-2027\u00a0season U.S. flu vaccines\u00a0will\u00a0again\u00a0be trivalent\u00a0vaccines. Trivalent flu vaccines are made to protect against three flu viruses (this season,\u00a0an A(H1N1) virus, an A(H3N2) virus, and a B\/Victoria virus).\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The updated vaccine now protects against the influenza A(H3N2)\u00a0subclade\u00a0K virus that spread widely during the 2025-2026 season.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Everyone 6 months of age\u00a0and older is recommended to get an annual flu vaccine.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259,&quot;335559991&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Adults 65 years and older should preferentially receive a\u00a0high-dose\u00a0inactivated, adjuvanted inactivated, recombinant influenza vaccine, or mRNA influenza vaccine when available.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-766-0-0-7\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor\" data-index=\"7\" ><div id=\"noflu\" class=\"panel-widget-style panel-widget-style-for-766-0-0-7\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><a id=\"not\"><\/a>Who should NOT get a flu vaccine?<\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Children\u00a0younger than\u00a0six\u00a0months of age\u00a0are too young to get a flu vaccine.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">These children are at\u00a0increased\u00a0risk of serious flu illness but are too young to be vaccinated. People who are in regular close contact with infants\u00a0and other children\u00a0who\u00a0cannot\u00a0be vaccinated\u00a0(e.g., caregivers and household members) should receive the flu vaccine.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Influenza\u00a0vaccination of a breastfeeding parent provides protection to both the parent and the\u00a0nursing\u00a0infant. Getting a flu vaccine while breastfeeding\u00a0is recommended\u00a0and is safe.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">People with\u00a0a history of\u00a0severe\u00a0allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any\u00a0component\u00a0of the flu vaccine.\u00a0This\u00a0could\u00a0include\u00a0antibiotics,\u00a0gelatin,\u00a0or other ingredients.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">People with egg allergy may receive any influenza vaccine (egg-based or non-egg-based) that is otherwise\u00a0appropriate.\u00a0See\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/prevent\/egg-allergies.htm\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Special Considerations Regarding Egg Allergy<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0for more information about egg allergies and\u00a0the\u00a0flu vaccine.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">People who have had\u00a0a severe allergic reaction to a\u00a0flu\u00a0vaccine\u00a0or\u00a0have\u00a0a history of\u00a0Guillain-Barr\u00e9 Syndrome\u00a0within 6 weeks of\u00a0a previous\u00a0dose of flu vaccine\u00a0should\u00a0talk\u00a0with\u00a0a\u00a0healthcare provider\u00a0when\u00a0deciding\u00a0whether vaccination is\u00a0appropriate.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div id=\"panel-766-0-0-8\" class=\"so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-last-child\" data-index=\"8\" ><div\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tclass=\"so-widget-sow-editor so-widget-sow-editor-base\"\n\t\t\t\n\t\t>\n<div class=\"siteorigin-widget-tinymce textwidget\">\n\t<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Flu Vaccine Resources<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:40,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/vaccines\/keyfacts.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/prevent\/keyfacts.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\"><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW251087828 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\/English\/news\/Pages\/aap-(influenza)-flu-prevention-recommendations-for-2026-27.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW251087828 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW251087828 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">AAP (Influenza) Flu Prevention &amp; Treatment Recommendations for 2026-27 - HealthyChildren.org<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"EOP Selected SCXW251087828 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"14\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335551500&quot;:0,&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/vaccines\/keyfacts.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/prevent\/keyfacts.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Key Facts About Seasonal Flu Vaccine<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"14\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335551500&quot;:0,&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu-vaccines-work\/?CDC_AAref_Val=https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/vaccines-work\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Flu Vaccines Work<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"14\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335551500&quot;:0,&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/vaccine-safety\/?CDC_AAref_Val=https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/prevent\/vaccinesafety.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Flu Vaccine Safety <\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"14\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335551500&quot;:0,&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/prevention\/misconceptions.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/flu\/prevent\/misconceptions.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Misconceptions About Flu Vaccines<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Flu Vaccination The best way to protect you and your loved ones from the flu is to get a flu vaccine every year. This page has information and resources to help answer your questions about flu vaccines.\u00a0 Reasons to get a flu vaccine\u00a0 Vaccination can reduce your chance of getting the flu and spreading it [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":52,"featured_media":0,"parent":758,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"tags":[],"class_list":["post-766","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Prevent the Flu - Epidemiology<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/epidemiology\/influenza-flu-in-virginia\/influenza-prevention-protect-yourself-and-others-from-getting-the-flu\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Prevent the Flu - Epidemiology\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Flu Vaccination The best way to protect you and your loved ones from the flu is to get a flu vaccine every year. 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