Seasonal influenza strikes as early as October and usually peaks by February/March. The flu can be serious, even deadly for the very young, those over 65 and anyone with certain high-risk health conditions. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), recommend that people get flu shots starting October 1st.
An annual flu shot is recommended for most people. If you have heart disease, asthma, chronic lung disease, diabetes, kidney or liver disease, or a weak immune system, it's especially important. People in high-risk groups should get vaccinated each year, even as late as January. |  |