The Centers for Disease Control is recommending that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot this season, including the previously non-recommended age group of healthy, non-pregnant adults 18 to 49. The expansion of the age groups is based on concerns that the 2009 H1N1 – or swine flu – virus will continue to circulate during the upcoming flu season, and data suggests that possible complications within the 18-to-49 age group might be greater this year.

Flu vaccinations begin in early September and continue through the winter. While influenza outbreaks can occur as early as October, most of the time influenza activity peaks in January or later.

There are two ways to get vaccinated: 1. The “flu shot” – a vaccine (containing killed virus) injection. The flu shot is approved for use in those older than 6 months, including both those in good health and those with chronic medical conditions. 2. The nasal-spray flu vaccine – a vaccine made with live, weakened flu viruses that do not cause the flu. It is approved for use in healthy people age 2 to 49 who are not pregnant.