The best way to guard against getting the flu is to get a yearly flu vaccine. Usually, you can get the vaccine at your doctor's office or a local clinic, and in many communities at workplaces, supermarkets, and drugstores.
For 2009-10, the CDC recommends flu shots for the following populations:
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Children aged 6 months up to their 19th birthday
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Anyone over 50 years of age and older.
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People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions.
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Pregnant women.
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People who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities.
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People who live with or care for those at high risk for complications from flu, including:
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Health care workers
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Household contacts of persons at high risk for complications from the flu
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Household contacts and out of home caregivers of children less than 6 months of age (these children are too young to be vaccinated)
