Get the facts: the 2020-2021 flu season

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Flu (influenza) season is here! Getting your flu shot protects yourself, your family and others from getting sick with the flu and flu-related illnesses.

We want to help keep you safe and informed. Please read below for common questions about the flu shot – and why it’s more important than ever.

Why should I get a flu shot?

• It protects you from getting sick with the flu.
• It keeps you from spreading flu to your loved ones.
• Flu can be very serious. If you get very sick, you may need to go to the hospital. Every year, many people die from the flu.
• Avoiding getting sick with the flu means healthcare resources can be saved for people with COVID-19 (coronavirus). Right now, we don’t have a vaccine for COVID-19 – but we do have a vaccine for flu! It’s important that everyone get their flu shot so hospitals can stay prepared for people with COVID-19.

Who should get a flu shot?

• Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu shot!
• It’s extra important that babies and young children, older people, people with chronic health conditions and pregnant people get a flu shot.

I heard the flu shot is dangerous. Is this true?

• No, the flu shot is safe – and it works.
• There are a lot of myths about the flu shot. They are based on rumors, not science.
• Hundreds of millions of Americans have safely received the flu shot over the past 50 years, and there has been extensive research supporting the safety of the flu shot.

How do I get a flu shot?

If you already have an appointment, make sure you get your flu shot at your visit. Otherwise, visit institute.org/locations and call your nearest health center. If you are a new patient, call (844) 434-2778.

To learn more about flu prevention, check out these tips from the CDC.