Do You Still Need a Flu Shot?

Years ago, I came down with the flu. All I can say is that it was awful, so awful that I've happily gotten a flu shot every year since then. I'm glad I got the flu shot this year as well even though this seems to be a particularly light year for the nasty virus – at least so far.

The Centers for Disease Control says that flu activity has been lighter than normal all across the country with no state reporting widespread activity. Good news!

But that doesn't mean that you're safe if you decided not to get a flu shot this year. The CDC says that in 15 of the last 30 years, flu activity started increasing in January, reached a peak in February or March and continued into May.

Which means…yes, you can still benefit from a flu shot. It takes two weeks for the immunization to take effect so you would be protected during most of the peak flu season. That's especially true if you are over 65, spend time around small children or have a medical condition that puts you at risk for complications. The CDC says these include:

• Asthma
• Chronic lung disease
• Heart disease
• Blood disorders (such as sickle cell disease)
• Diabetes or other endocrine disorders
• Kidney disorders
• Liver disorders
• Weakened immune system due to disease or medication
• Morbid obesity (Body Mass Index, or BMI, of 40 or greater)