Autumn is a beautiful time of year and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu activity is low right now. Since it takes two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop an immune response, this is the perfect time to get vaccinated.

Every one 6 months of age and older should receive a yearly flu vaccine. Babies under 6 months of age are not able to receive the vaccine, so it is important for caregivers, parents and siblings to be vaccinated to help protect them. Children 6 months thru 8 years who did not receive at least one dose of the 2010-11 vaccine, should receive two doses of the 2011-12 vaccine. The second dose should be given 28 days after the first dose for adequate protection.

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness. The flu usually comes on suddenly, symptoms can include fever/chills, cough, sore throat, runny/stuffy nose, muscle/body aches, headaches, fatigue and vomiting/diarrhea, which is more common in children than adults. Most people who get the flu will recover in a few days to two weeks. Some people can develop complications, some of which can be life threatening.

The CDC recommends the following preventative measures to help stop the spread of the flu: first, get vaccinated, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands often or use an alcohol-based hand rub, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, try to avoid close contact with sick people, if you are sick with a flu-like illness - stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone, and if you are sick, limit contact with others as much as possible.

Contact your physician or local health department for information on the flu vaccine.