On the hundred year anniversary of the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic, flu prevention is top of mind. With the close quarters of the holidays at hand, it’s important to protect yourself and your loved ones from contracting the flu.

Each season’s vaccine is based on an educated guess of the four most likely strains of flu to hit that season. As the predictions are made six months ahead of time to allow for vaccine creation and distribution, it sometimes misses the mark. Viruses mutate, but the vaccine is the best first defense against flu.

Flu tends to come on quickly, prompting a feeling of fatigue and achy muscles. Recommendation is for anyone over six months to have the vaccine. Individuals with weakened immune systems should consult with their physician before getting a shot.

Listen as Dr. Richard Webby joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss the importance of the flu vaccine.