Young Woman Blowing Her Nose in BedA seasonal flu shot is recommended every year for persons 6 months of age and older, to help protect you, your family, and the community from the flu. Avoid the flu by getting vaccinated today.

A seasonal flu shot is especially recommended for these high risk groups:

  • People 50 years of age and older
  • People who live in nursing homes and long-term care facilities
  • People of any age with chronic medical conditions (including asthmatics and diabetics)
  • Pregnant women
  • Home caregivers and health care workers
  • Infants and children* age 6 months up to their 19th birthday

*Depending on previous vaccination history, children aged 6 months through 8 years may be required to receive two doses of influenza vaccine

 In addition to getting the flu vaccine, prevent the spread of illness by following these steps:

  • Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue and properly dispose of used tissues
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and/or mouth
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after a cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers may be used if soap and water are not available
  • Avoid close contact with sick people and stay home when you are sick to avoid spreading illness to others

 For information about low- and no-cost flu vaccines, contact the Communicable Disease Section at 1-800-722-4794, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about the flu, visit CDPH’s Immunization Branch website. To find a flu clinic, visit http://flushot.healthmap.org/.