Flu season is nearly upon us: What you need to know and do now



MILWAUKEE -- We're coming up on flu season. But now is the time to start protecting yourself. Clinical nurse specialist Lisa Gorski joined the Studio A team with some very helpful tips.

The CDC says more than 40 million doses of 2015-16 flu vaccine have been distributed in the United States. This season’s vaccines have been updated to better match circulating viruses. CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. While how well the vaccine works can vary, flu vaccine is the best way to prevent influenza illness and its complications. Flu vaccination benefits include reducing flu illnesses, doctors' visits, and missed work and school due to flu, as well as preventing more serious complications, like flu-related hospitalizations.

It takes about two weeks after vaccination for protection to set in so start thinking about getting vaccinated now. The HealthMap Vaccine Finder can help find a location near you to get vaccinated.