Fall ushers in the beginning of flu season – which is also known as the ‘flu shot season.’

It’s hard to tell whether an easy or difficult flu season lies ahead. Most people get sick in December and January. However, public health officials are urging everyone to take protective action now.

Director of the Lee County Health Department Dr. Judith Hartner says the most effective way people can protect themselves from the flu by getting an annual flu shot.

“In years past, we just talked about people who were older than 65 or people with chronic disease,” said Hartner.

“But children can be very susceptible to influenza, pregnant woman… So if you’re six months or older, we recommend getting a flu shot.”

Less than half of Americans get the vaccine. Some believe getting the shot will give them the flu. Hartner says that’s a common misconception, because the viruses in the vaccine are not living.