ime to renew. A bad case of the flu can sideline even the healthiest person. When older people and those with a chronic medical condition get the flu, it can progress to bacterial pneumonia. To help protect yourself, consider a flu shot. If you have a chronic illness, work in a healthcare setting, are over the age of 65 or live with someone who’s at high risk for the flu, be SURE to be immunized. Parents may want to ask about flu shots for their children. The flu vaccine contains only noninfectious, purified virus proteins, so you can’t get the flu from having the vaccination as some people mistakenly think. Getting the vaccination doesn’t guarantee you won’t get the flu, but it greatly reduces your chances of it. Flu viruses change frequently, so some won’t be covered by your vaccine. Also, other viruses cause diseases that may seem like the flu but aren’t. Of course, the vaccine doesn’t offer protection against these. Remember, last year’s vaccination doesn’t protect you against this year’s flu. Take your shot during the fall so your immune system has plenty of time to build up before the start of flu season. (The season generally lasts from December to April.) The time for getting the vaccination varies according to where you live. Ask your doctor or health department when you should get yours. (People who are allergic to eggs shouldn’t get a vaccination.) Note: This is also a good time to get a pneumonia vaccination. The vaccinations are good for seven to ten years for many people, but not for everyone. Discuss with your doctor whether you need a pneumonia vaccination. © Your HealthStyle, 1999.