Health library

Is a flu shot right for you?

The flu can lead to missed work or school, hospitalization and even death. Almost everyone 6 months and older needs a flu shot every year-especially people who are more likely to get seriously ill if they catch the flu.

Who's at high risk for flu complications?

Adults 65 and older.
Children under 2 years old.
People with chronic health conditions.
Pregnant women.
People with weakened immune systems.
Nursing home residents.
Non-Hispanic Black people, Hispanic or Latino people, and American Indian or Alaska Native people.
Caregivers of people at high risk.

Reviewed 5/6/2025

Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Key Facts About Seasonal Flu Vaccine." https://www.cdc.gov/flu/vaccines/keyfacts.html.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "People at Increased Risk for Flu Complications." https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/index.htm.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Who Needs a Flu Vaccine." https://www.cdc.gov/flu/vaccines/vaccinations.html.
NCQA. "Flu Vaccinations (FVA, FVO). https://www.ncqa.org/report-cards/health-plans/state-of-health-care-quality-report/flu-vaccinations.