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Just like COVID, influenza, or "the flu" spreads easily between people in schools, workplaces and homes. But the flu and COVID are caused by different viruses and different vaccines prevent them.

Everyone ages 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine each year, ideally by the end of October. Flu vaccine can prevent sickness, healthcare visits, hospitalizations, and deaths.

Protection lasts throughout the flu season, which usually peaks in January or February and continues into the spring. Talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about which flu vaccine is recommended for you.