Everyone needs to take steps to prevent the flu. The best time to get the flu shot is in the fall. Flu season lasts from December to March. You need a flu shot every year, so call your doctor to get one.

Even with a flu shot, you may still get the flu, but your symptoms won’t be as bad and you will recover more quickly. If you do get the flu, try these self-care tips:

• Stay home and rest.
• Drink plenty of water and 100 percent fruit juice.
• Avoid cigarette smoke.
• Gargle a few times a day with warm salted water to soothe a sore throat. Use 1/4 teaspoon of salt to 1/2 cup of water.

Getting the flu can be serious for people of all ages who have a chronic illness, people ages 65 and older, children between ages 6 months and 23 months, pregnant women, and health care workers. Getting a flu shot is very important for people in these groups.