The holidays bring hustle and bustle, as well as time with family, friends, and celebrations of all kinds. But it’s also flu season. Nothing can ruin your holiday season quicker than flu. You can get very sick and even end up the hospital. Don’t let getting the flu stop you from enjoying all of the special holiday occasions.

December 3-9 is National Influenza Vaccination Week, and a reminder that if you haven’t gotten a flu shot yet, you need to do it as soon as possible. As long as the flu is circulating in San Diego County, we all need the protection flu vaccine provides.

Prepare for this busy season by taking these steps to ensure that you and your family stay healthy:

1. Cover your coughs and sneezes. Use a tissue or your arm.
2. Wash your hands often, with plenty of soap and warm water.
3. Stay away from sick people whenever possible.
4. Stay home from work and school when you're sick.
5. Get enough rest, exercise regularly, and eat a healthy diet.

Flu vaccine is readily available throughout the county. Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or visit a public health immunization clinic. For a list of clinics, visit http://tinyurl.com/y9ovuekf. Get your flu vaccine now so that you’re protected throughout the holiday season and beyond. Visit the San Diego County Immunization Program flu webpage for more information.

If you’re unsure about getting a flu vaccine, check out our Flu Myths webpage. It will to help show why getting the flu vaccine is a healthy choice for you and your family. Click here to learn more: http://tinyurl.com/no37xzq.

Getting a flu shot is a one of the things we can all do to Live Well. Live Well San Diego is the countywide vision to improve the health and well-being of our community. People who protect themselves and others against vaccine-preventable diseases, like the flu, build better health in their community, contributing to the Live Well San Diego vision of a Healthy, Safe, and Thriving San Diego County.