The flu season will soon be here. The single best way to prevent getting the flu is to get vaccinated each fall.

This year the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken steps to make sure there will be a flu shot available for everyone who wants one.

In general, nearly everyone can benefits from a flu shot. However, getting a flu shot each year is particularly important for individuals who are at high-risk for getting serious complications if they come down with the flu. Those at high-risk for complications from the flu include:

• All children 6 to 23 months of age;
• Adults and children 6 months and older with chronic illness, such as heart, lung, or kidney disease; diabetes; and a weakened immune system;
• People 65 years and older;
• People living in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities; and
• Women who will be pregnant during the flu season.

The flu shot is also recommended for health-care workers, care-givers, and family members who come in contact with those at high risk for flu complications listed above.

In addition, the flu shot is recommended for all individuals 6 months of age and older who have been displaced by hurricane Katrina and are living in crowded group settings.

The best time to get the flu shot is in October or November before the flu season is in full swing. The flu season usually peaks between late December and early March.

It is still possible to get the flu even if you have received a flu shot, but the symptoms will be milder. You will also recover from the flu more quickly.

There are some people who should not get the flu shot because of allergies and certain medical conditions. If you have questions about whether you should get a flu shot, contact your health-care provider.

Source: “Preventing the Flu,” U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov.