What, me get a flu shot? Yes, if you're prone to colds or other infections or have at least one risk factor for complications from the flu such as heart disease or diabetes.
The American Academy of Family Physicians recently lowered the recommended age for adults to routinely receive influenza vaccinations from 65 to 50.
Researchers say fewer than 30 percent of adults under age 65 and at high-risk for complications from the flu get an annual vaccination. The Centers for Disease Control recommends flu shots for anyone who wants to reduce their chances of getting the flu.
CDC officials, along with the World Health Organization, each year examine data from around the world to determine what strains of flu are most likely to hit the United States. From that information they pick three major strains and then contract with several pharmaceutical companies to manufacture a vaccine that will protect people from all three.
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