A yearly flu vaccine is recommended for those people in high-risk categories. The vaccine is also recommended for people who work with (or live with) others at high risk.

People at high risk include:

• People over 50 years of age
• Children aged 6 to 23 months
• Women more than 3 months pregnant during the flu season
• Anyone living in a long-term care facility or institution
• Anyone with chronic heart, lung, or kidney conditions, diabetes, or weakened immune system

Anyone can get the flu shot if they want to lower their chances of getting the flu, as long as they:

• Are over 6 months old
• Don't have a serious allergy to eggs
• Haven't had a serious reaction to flu shots in the past

Some people, particularly those at high risk, who have been exposed to influenza may benefit from antiviral medication and vaccination.

The FluMist nasal spray is an alternative. Unlike the regular vaccine, it is a live virus. Therefore, it is best if the person receiving it does not have close contact with people with a weakened immune system.