Vaccinations get a lot of bad press. Yet approximately 40-50,000 adults in the United States die from vaccine-preventable infectious diseases (or their complications) each year.

Because influenza is so highly contagious, one sneeze can infect everyone in the immediate area. The American Lung Association promotes protective actions like:

• Stay away from crowds and large indoor gatherings.
• Wash your hands often.
• If you are sick, stay away from others.
• If others show symptoms, stay away from them!

Just don’t “sneeze” at the wisdom of getting vaccinated. Yes, the influenza virus changes constantly. Every year, scientists work together to identify the virus strains they believe will cause the most illness. As a result, a different vaccine gets created every year.

Some people, like older adults, very young children, pregnant women and those suffering from chronic medical conditions are more susceptible to flu. They need the most protection. And even people in robust health benefit from vaccinations.

Give yourself the best protection and get vaccinated as soon as it becomes available in the fall of each year.

Learn more at American Lung Association | 800.586.4872 | www.lung.org/flu Twitter: @LungAssociation