This year, do your part to prevent the spread of the flu by getting a vaccine, washing your hands frequently, staying home if you're not well and avoiding contact with people who are ill. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a flu shot for:

• Children over six months up to 18 years old
• Pregnant women
• People age 50 and older
• People with chronic medical conditions
• People who live in long-term care or nursing facilities
• People who live with or care for those at high-risk for complications from the flu, including daycare providers and healthcare workers.

In addition to the normally occurring seasonal flu this year, there is concern about H1N1 (swine) flu. To help prevent H1N1, follow the same practices you would to avoid the regular flu. For up-to-date H1N1 and vaccine information, visit cdc.gov and select H1N1 Flu.

Also, for protection against pneumonia, the CDC suggests the pneumococcal shot for people age 65 and older, people who have problems with their lungs, heart, liver or kidneys and people with health problems like diabetes, sickle cell disease, alcoholism or HIV/AIDS.

Please note that the content of this article is for your information only — the recommended service may not be covered. Eligibility and coverage are subject to the specific terms of your benefit plan.