The holiday season is here, and that can mean more time spent with family and friends. However, as holiday cheer spreads, so can the flu, and with potentially serious complications. Getting a vaccine is the best way to stay protected against the flu.

This year, December 4-8 is National Influenza Vaccination Week. It is a critical opportunity to remind everyone 6 months and older that there’s still time to protect themselves this flu season by getting their annual flu vaccine, if they have not already.

Getting vaccinated against flu also protects loved ones, like adults 65 years and older and people living with certain chronic conditions who are at increased risk of suffering from serious flu complications. These groups also face a higher risk of hospitalization if they get sick with the flu.

A flu vaccine can protect everyone as people gather to celebrate the holiday season. Vaccines are safe and effective – and there’s still time to get vaccinated. Every year, flu vaccines are updated to better match the four flu viruses that research indicates will circulate during the season.

Go to your doctor or local pharmacy to get your flu vaccine, encourage your loved ones to get their flu vaccine and learn more about the benefits of getting vaccinated against the flu.