Seasonal Influenza (Flu)

Influenza, often called “the flu,” is a virus that causes a respiratory illness. In the U.S, flu season begins in the fall and lasts through the following spring. The exact timing and duration of flu seasons can vary, but cases of influenza usually begin to increase in October and peak between December and February, with some flu cases occurring as late as May. The CDC recommends that people 6 months and older get vaccinated against the flu.

It is important to get vaccinated against the flu every year because vaccine protection lessens over time and the virus also changes. This means that even if you got vaccinated last flu season, you need to get vaccinated again this flu season. It is not possible to predict how mild or severe a flu season will be but getting the flu can be dangerous and can even lead to death. Some people are at a higher risk for serious complications if they get the flu, including, older adults, pregnant women, young children, and people with certain health conditions.  Getting a flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and the community.

Flu vaccines are available throughout the County during the fall and winter. Contact your healthcare provider for flu vaccination information or visit our Flu Vaccine Locations web page to find a flu vaccination location that works for you.

Learn More About the Flu...

Vaccine Locations

Where Can I Get a Flu Vaccine?

Flu Vaccine Locations in Spanish

Donde me puedo vacunar contra la influenza?

Resources and Promotional Materials

Share and distribute flyers, posters, social media, videos, and other educational materials.

sandiego

Health Conditions and Complications

Learn more about how the flu may affect specific medical conditions.

sandiego

Guidance for High-Risk Groups

The flu vaccine is especially important for people at high risk for complications and their caregivers.  

vaccine

Healthcare Personnel Flu Mandates

Healthcare personnel should receive an annual influenza vaccine. Learn more about the rationale.

sandiego

Beginning October 20, 2022, the COVID-19 Watch and the Influenza Watch are combined into a single Respiratory Surveillance Report, which will be updated every Thursday. 

Tips to Help You Stay Healthy This Flu Season

  • Get a flu vaccine!
  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it and wash your hands.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Germs spread this way.
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs that can cause respiratory illnesses like the flu.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • If you are sick, limit your contact with others as much as possible so you don’t spread your infection to them.

Remember to Take 3 actions to fight flu this season. 1. Get a Vaccine in shot or mist form. 2. Wash your hands. 3. Take antivirals if prescribed by your doctor if you get the flu.

For more information or to request materials,
contact the San Diego Immunization Unit via e-mail or call us at (866) 358-2966.