Oct 28, 2013 04:47 PM EDT By Russell Westerholm, UniversityHerald Reporter

Flu season has begun and this year, like any, it is important to act quickly and thoughtfully before getting vaccinated.

1.     Children

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stresses every year the importance of getting children vaccinated. Additionally, if you live with children, it might be wise to get vaccinated as well to avoid spreading the sickness around the household.

HealthDay News reported Monday a study that said a vaccination is not enough defense for even a healthy child in guarding against health risks brought on the flu. The study researchers said it is very important for a pregnant woman to be immunized for the flu and for anyone who comes in contact with an infant to be vaccinated as well.

2.     Flu Immunization Nasal Spray

This is the first year a nasal spray flu immunization will be available for children aged two or three years old. The CDC recommends anyone over six months be immunized, but it is important to consider if the nasal spray is a better option than a shot. Thankfully, you do not have to go crazy researching which will suit you better.

According to DoDLive.mil, you healthcare provider will determine - based on your age, existing health conditions and allergies - which form of immunization is right for you. Still, do not be afraid to ask questions regarding either form of the flu vaccination.

3.     Flu Vaccines Help Cardiac Health

A previous study found that people who received a flu vaccine will be about 36 percent less likely to develop a heart problem and 19 percent less likely to die from one, the Washington Post reported.

The flu will make any existing health problem worse and it travels rapidly through the body, so anyone with a heart condition should become immunized against the flu.

4.     Your Healthy Track Record May Not Matter

Reuters reported that a simple flu shot reduced the risk of being hospitalized for the illness by 71.4 percent, according to data from the Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

One main reason people do not get vaccinated is cost. While most insurances cover a flu shot administered in a doctor's office, getting one at a CVS or Walgreens will likely cost around $35. Some companies will offer a free immunization to all their employees, regardless of insurance, so it will be well worth your while to ask your boss if a similar policy applies.

Be wary of an office-type setting, if one person gets sick, they can be putting the whole building in danger.

5.     Go Early (as in, now)

The flu is highly contagious and fast spreading throughout a person's body. You could have sniffles one day and be bed-ridden within days, so go get immunized as soon as possible. Last year was a bad year for the influenza virus, especially when there were shortages due to a sudden rush for vaccinations late in the season.

Case and point, go now while vaccination supplies are well stocked and avoid that holiday season flu scare.

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