Flu Shot Under Age 50
You're not invincible at any age
Just because you 'never' get sick doesn't mean you're invincible from getting the flu. A serious misconception is that the flu shot is only for children and older adults. However, Veterans under 50 also need a flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends flu shots for anyone over six months and older.
Veterans need to get a flu shot to protect not only themselves but also their loved ones. If you're under 50, don't be one of the many Americans who fail to get a shot. Protect yourself, your aging parents, your small children, your friends, and neighbors.
Basic tips to help prevent the flu
You may feel like you're old enough to know how to avoid flu and young enough to fight it. But as many as 740,000 people were hospitalized last year, so getting vaccinated is crucial. All Veterans can follow the tips below to help keep themselves healthy:
Cover coughs and sneezes
Keep hands clean - wash frequently
Stay home and avoid others when sick
Seek antiviral treatment (Tamiflu, among other options) right away if you think you have flu
Promote flu vaccination and prevention strategies to others around you at home and work.
Keep in mind
Each year, flu causes serious illness and even death. Talk to your doctor at your next appointment or sign in to send a message to your health care team via Secure Messaging (sign in required) to learn more about flu shots. Getting your flu vaccine is safe and well tolerated with millions receiving it each year. It takes two weeks for your flu shot to protect yourself, family, and friends, so get your shot now.
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