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.