With few exceptions, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , the American Medical Association and other organizations recommend all individuals 6 months and older to get a flu shot every year. Here's why: Flu shots have been shown to reduce the likelihood of getting sick with the flu by as much as 40% to 60%. Flu vaccines also reduce the risk of severe symptoms, hospitalization or death if a person becomes infected with the influenza virus. To help raise awareness about the flu shot and the benefits of getting vaccinated, SIU Medicine is celebrating National Influenza