Dec. 5 through Dec. 9 is National Influenza Vaccination Week. This week serves as a critical opportunity to remind everyone 6 months and older that there’s still time to protect yourselves and your loved ones from flu this flu season by getting your annual flu vaccine.

Each year in the United States on average, an estimated 5-20 percent of the population can be infected with the flu, and more than 200,000 people may be hospitalized during flu season. While flu can make anyone sick, certain people are at greater risk for serious complications causing hospitalization or even death, such as: elderly, young children, people with chronic lung disease, diabetes, heart disease, certain other long-term health conditions, and pregnant women.

Flu activity is currently elevated across the country. Take the first and most important action in preventing flu illness and potentially serious flu complications by getting your flu vaccine today. A flu vaccine reduces your risk of illness, hospitalization, or even death and can prevent you from spreading the virus to your loved ones.

Contact your healthcare provider to find out what immunizations you currently need, and what is available. Most immunizations are available at either your healthcare provider or most pharmacies.