With respiratory season approaching, the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) is encouraging individuals to help prevent illness by getting their flu shot.

Influenza, also known as the flu, is caused by a virus that affects the nose, throat, airways and lungs. The flu typically circulates in the United States from the beginning of October through the middle of May.

One of the best ways to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year.

“We know that every year there are individuals who end up hospitalized from the flu,” said Myka Saltsman, the OSDH interim immunizations director. “To help prevent severe illness we recommend individuals, especially those at higher risk for serious complications from the flu, get vaccinated.”

Those at highest risk include adults 65 years and older, pregnant women, children younger than two years of age and individuals with chronic conditions, like diabetes or heart disease.

Some children may qualify for no-cost vaccines through the CDC’s Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. Oklahoma children aged 18 and under who are uninsured, underinsured, on Medicaid (Sooner-Care), or American Indian/ Alaska Native are eligible.

To learn more about finding flu shots in Oklahoma, visit fightflu. health.ok.gov. Oklahomans can also call the 2-1-1 helpline or contact their local county health department for assistance.