Influenza, most commonly known as flu, is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. Every flu season is different, and the flu infection can affect people differently. Even healthy people can get very sick and spread it to others.

The best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated. Take this pledge to protect yourself and your loved ones from getting influenza this season.

Everyone six months and older is recommended for annual flu vaccination (with some rare exceptions). The vaccine is particularly recommended for people who are at high risk for complications from the illness – such as pneumonia, bronchitis and sinus and ear infections. The flu can also make chronic health problems worse.

Flu vaccines cause antibodies to develop in the body about two weeks after vaccination. These antibodies provide protection against infection with the viruses that are in the vaccine. Traditional flu vaccines made to protect against three different flu viruses are available. In addition, flu vaccines made to protect against four different flu viruses also are available.

Flu vaccines are offered in many locations, including pharmacies, doctor’s offices, clinics and health departments, as well as by many employers and even in some schools. Even if you don’t have a regular doctor or nurse, you can get a flu vaccine somewhere else, like a health department, pharmacy, urgent care clinic and often your school or workplace.

Take the pledge. Encourage your family and friends to get the flu vaccine. When more people get vaccinated, less flu can spread through your community.

Qsource works with healthcare provider and patients to increase the rate of vaccinations to prevent common illnesses like the flu. Learn more here.