What’s True About the Flu?

The flu is a viral respiratory tract infection. It generally passes from person to person through the air when an infected person sneezes or coughs. But the virus can also live for a short time on objects like doorknobs, pens, pencils, keyboards, cellphones, and eating or drinking utensils. So you can also get the flu by touching something that has been handled by someone infected with the virus and then touching your own mouth, nose, or eyes. Getting the flu by touching an object happens less often than getting it when a person coughs or sneezes.

A flu shot is a vaccine to get once a year to help prevent the flu. It doesn't treat flu symptoms.

Each year's flu viruses are often slightly different from the past year's viruses. For this reason, the flu vaccine is updated each year to include the most current strains of the influenza virus. You must get a new vaccine each year to make sure you have up-to-date protection. You should get a flu shot as soon as it becomes available each year. It takes about 2 weeks after the vaccine for your body to develop antibodies that protect against the influenza virus.

The flu vaccine can't give you the flu. The most common side effects from a flu shot are soreness where the shot was given and maybe a slight fever or achiness.

The flu vaccine is available as a shot or nasal spray. The shot is available in a few different forms and is safe for most people. There is a high-dose vaccine for people older than 65. A nasal spray is available for healthy, nonpregnant people ages 2 to 49 years.

All people ages 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine.

Antiviral medicines can be used against the flu. But you still need a flu shot. The medicines work best when started within 2 days of becoming sick. They help you feel better more quickly. And they reduce the risk for complications from the flu. These medicines can also be used to prevent the flu if you are around someone who has it. But antiviral medicines are not a substitute for the flu vaccine.

The flu virus is spread when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. So objects like glasses, tissues, and towels may have the virus on them. You should stay away from people with the flu if you can. Also wash your hands and keep them away from your nose and mouth. Your best protection is the vaccine.

The CDC estimates 7 to 9 out of 10 deaths from the flu each year are people older than age 65. There is a high-dose vaccine to better protect people 65 years and older.