Flu Shot Time

By now, we have all had our flu shots, right? Well, not exactly. According to federal government statistics, less than half the adults who should get the influenza vaccine each year actually do so. For children, the rate is better, but far from ideal.

Flu shots help protect us from the highly contagious, debilitating illness that can have severe complications in some portions of the population. Children, pregnant women, and those 65 and older are at particular risk, as are those with chronic lung conditions. At best, flu can knock you down for a couple of days, at worst, it can kill.

The shots are inexpensive and available widely, including at large pharmacies, walk-in clinics, and doctors’ offices. If you haven’t yet — and especially if you are in one of the at-risk groups — please consider getting a shot right away. Remember: The flu is contagious so you will be helping others as well as yourself.