Those who should not get flu shots include babies less than six months of age, those who have an allergy to eggs, people who have a moderate or severe illness with fever at the time of vaccination or those who have had a serious reaction to a flu vaccine in the past. More specifically, doctors do not recommend flu shots for those who have experienced Guillain-Barre syndrome within six months following a previous flu shot. Guillain-Barre syndrome is an acute, autoimmune disorder that is generally marked by weakness or paralysis in the legs, upper limbs and/or face.

Because people with cancer already have compromised immune systems, it is generally recommended that cancer patients get flu vaccines. However, vaccines are of two types: those that contain an inactivated or killed virus (administered through a shot in the arm) and those that contain the live, or weakened, virus (usually administered through a nasal spray). Cancer patients should receive the inactivated vaccine. All seriously ill patients should consult their doctor before making a decision about flu shots.

Others who might make the choice to not to get a flu shot, but are not discouraged by medical professionals, include those who are not in close contact with others who are at high-risk of complications of the flu or those who are simply not worried about getting the flu. Pregnant women should get their flu shots to prevent the flu during pregnancy. Because viral illnesses like colds and the flu last up to three times longer in pregnant women, that’s misery you want to avoid. Additionally, pregnancy can increase your risk for complications of the flu. Even nursing mothers are safe to receive flu shots; the vaccine is safe for breastfeeding mothers and nursing children.

When considering whether to get flu shots, consider the facts. If you have an infant who is too young to get a flu shot or you care for elderly friends or relatives, consider getting a flu vaccine to protect your family and friends. You can not get the flu from the vaccine. The flu, or influenza, is not just a bad cold; it is an infection of the nose, throat, and lungs caused by a virus. Although many people do not have complications, the flu can be deadly.

Sometimes the flu leads to serious problems, such as pneumonia, that cause hospital visits or stays. Flu virus strains change frequently, so if you had last year’s vaccine, you are not protected from this year’s virus. Even if you get the flu after having taken the vaccine, you will have a milder form of the illness.

Get the shot as early as possible; medical professionals recommend getting the vaccine in October or November. It takes two to three weeks for the antibodies to develop after receiving the vaccine. However, it is never too late to get the shot because flu season usually lasts through March.