Flu Vaccine
Flu Vaccines - Protect Yourself and Others this Flu Season
Getting your annual flu shot is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community from influenza.
The CDC recommends flu vaccination every year for everyone 6 months and older, ideally before the end of October, but vaccines are still beneficial throughout the flu season (which usually peaks between December and February).
Why Get a Flu Shot?
- Flu vaccines are updated each year to protect against the most common circulating strains.
- Getting vaccinated reduces your risk of getting sick, being hospitalized, or spreading flu to others.
- It's especially important for people at higher risk of complications, including:
- Young children (under 5)
- Adults 65 and older
- Pregnant individuals
- People with chronic conditions (asthma, diabetes, heart disease)
- Immunocompromised individuals
Protecting Others
Some people, like infants under 6 months, are too young to get the flu shot. You can help protect them by getting vaccinated yourself. This is also crucial for health care workers, caregivers, and people who live with those at higher risk.
Everyday Flu Prevention Tips
Even with vaccination, you should take steps to prevent spreading flu and other respiratory illnesses:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- If you're sick, stay home until at least 24 hours after your fever is gone (without fever-reducing medicine).
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Regularly clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces.
Where to Get a Flu Shot in Sierra County
Flu vaccines are available at Sierra County Public Health and through local clinics and regional pharmacies. Most insurance plans cover flu shots at no cost. Uninsured individuals may be eligible for free or low-cost vaccination through Public Health programs.