Protect yourself from the flu

Article summary

• Protect yourself from the flu
• How to keep from getting the flu
• Flu symptoms
• The vaccine is safe
• How to get a flu shot

Protect yourself from the flu

Protecting yourself from the flu can help keep you and your family healthy.

Take the flu seriously

The flu is more serious than a cold.
It spreads easily from person to person and can make people very sick.
This is why it is important to take steps to stay safe during flu season.

How to keep from getting the flu

Flu season usually lasts from September to May.
Here are simple ways to help protect yourself:

• Wash your hands often
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze
• Stay home if you feel sick
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick

The CDC recommends a flu shot every year for everyone 6 months and older.
Some people have a higher chance of getting very sick from the flu, including:

• Adults age 65 and older
• Children younger than 2
• People with asthma
• People with long-term health problems

Flu symptoms

Flu symptoms can feel like a cold, but the flu is usually stronger.

Common flu symptoms include:

• Fever and chills
• Feeling very tired
• Headache
• Body or muscle aches
• Cough
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Nausea, diarrhea or vomiting

The vaccine is safe

A flu shot is the best way to protect yourself from the flu.
The flu shot cannot give you the flu.
Some people may feel sore or tired for a day or two — this is normal.

Even if you still get the flu, the shot can help make your symptoms milder and reduce the chance of going to the hospital.

The flu virus changes every year, so it is important to get a new shot each year.

How to get a flu shot

• Visit your primary care doctor to get your flu shot
• You can also check with your local pharmacy

Need help finding a flu shot?
Call the Member Services number on your Molina member ID card,
or click Find Care at the top of this page.