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What to know about the flu

The flu virus spreads in Minnesota and the U.S. each fall and winter. The virus changes from season to season, and protection from previous flu vaccines fades. That’s why everyone 6 months and older needs a flu vaccine each year.

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Why is the flu a concern?

You might think the flu is no big deal, but it can cause serious illness, hospitalization, and death, even in healthy people.

  • Each year, the flu causes tens of millions of illnesses in the U.S.

  • As vaccination rates fall, more children are at risk of getting the flu and even dying from it.

  • The flu is especially dangerous for older adults, young children, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems.

  • The flu vaccine is the best way to avoid serious illness. The virus changes each season, so you need a yearly vaccine to stay protected.

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How do I protect my family?

Getting a yearly flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your family from the flu. Flu vaccines are available at pharmacies, doctor’s offices, and local health departments. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months and older.

The flu virus changes from season to season, so scientists update it each year to match the current virus more closely. Even in years when the match isn’t perfect, the flu vaccine helps you bounce back faster and avoid the worst outcomes of the flu, like hospitalization or death.

Wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces and staying home when you’re sick can also help prevent the spread of illness.


Learn more

Check out these resources for more information about the flu and how to protect your family.

External link icon HealthyChildren.org: The Flu: What Parents Need to Know

Written by pediatricians, this resource explains flu symptoms to look out for in kids and more information about preventing and treating the flu.

External link icon Minnesota Department of Health: Influenza (Flu) Information for Parents

Get answers to parents’ most common questions about the flu.

External link icon Mayo Clinic: Influenza (flu)

Learn more about ways to prevent flu and when to see a doctor.