flu information from the centers for disease control and prevention (cdc) and the national institute of aging

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza (flu) viruses that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. Some people, such as people 65 years and older, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at higher risk of serious flu complications. 

Visit the CDC flu web page for information about the 2024-25 season.

for people who have medicare

• Flu and people 65 years and older. While flu seasons vary in severity, during most seasons, people 65 years and older bear the greatest burden of severe flu disease. Read more from the CDC about how you can protect yourself this flu season.
• What is the difference between flu and COVID-19? Read about the similarities and differences between flu and COVID-19.
• Flu and older adults. Information from the National Institute on Aging.
• Get the latest on COVID-19, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Learn more about all three of these respiratory viruses, who is most at risk, and how they are affecting your state right now. You can use some of the same strategies to protect yourself from all three viruses.
• If you are a veteran of the U.S. military and are enrolled in VA health care, you can receive the flu shot at any military facility, in-network pharmacies, or urgent care walk-in locations.

for healthcare providers, stakeholders, and partners

• Recommendations. The CDC website offers public health and healthcare professionals key information about vaccination, infection control, prevention, treatment, and the diagnosis of seasonal influenza.
• Communication resource center. Free resources to help you promote the flu vaccine to patients. Download free communication and educational material.
• Toolkit. This digital toolkit includes details on events/activities, sample social media and newsletter content, graphics, web assets, and media prep material. This material is downloadable, shareable, and some of the material is customizable. Get the CDC Digital Media Toolkit: 2024-25 Flu Season.
• Get email updates. Subscribe to get flu updates from the CDC.
• Materials in other languages. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has postcards in other languages to encourage people to get their flu shots.