Influenza (flu) vaccines (often called “flu shots”) are vaccines that protect against the four influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the upcoming season. Most flu vaccines are “flu shots” given with a needle, usually in the arm, but there also is a nasal spray flu vaccine.

Benefits of flu vaccination

• Flu vaccination can keep you from getting sick with flu.

• Flu vaccination has been shown in several studies to reduce severity of illness in people who get vaccinated but still get sick.

• Flu vaccination can reduce the risk of flu-associated hospitalization.

• Flu vaccination is an important preventive tool for people with certain chronic health conditions.

• Flu vaccination helps protect pregnant people during and after pregnancy.

• Flu vaccine can be lifesaving in children.

• Getting vaccinated yourself may also protect people around you.