Flu season (flu occurs most often in fall and winter months with peaks from December through March) is right around the corner. You should consider getting the flu vaccine to protect yourself this year! Visit the DOHMH Flu Clinic Locator to find a flu vaccine clinic near you!

Influenza (flu) is an infection of the nose, throat, bronchial tubes, and lungs. It is very contagious and anyone can get it, but it's most serious for the elderly, young children, people with chronic illnesses, and people with weak immune systems. For more information about influenza, visit "Flu Facts" written by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

Getting the flu shots is especially important for these people:

• Children aged 6 months to 18 years (Babies under 6 months are too young for the flu shot)
• Pregnant Women
• Health Care Workers
• People aged 50 and older
• People with long-term health problems
• People in nursing homes or other long-term-care facilities
• Household members and caregivers of children under 5 (especially infants younger than 6 months)
• People living with or caring for others who are over 50 or who have long-term health problems

Where to get a flu shot:

• From your family doctor or primary-care provider
• From many pharmacies that offer flu vaccinations for adults
• From many employers that offer free or low-cost vaccinations
• For people 50 and older, from select senior centers (Call 311to find out where)
• For no cost at Health Department immunization clinics and for low or no cost at Health and Hospital Corporation facilities