It is recommended for any person over 6 months of age who may be at increased risk of complications from the flu due to age or underlying medical conditions. The medication is given by injection into a muscle by a health care professional.
Adults usually receive the injection in the upper arm and children receive it in the upper thigh.
The vaccination is usually given in the September to October time frame when the incidence of flu virus begins to increase. Only one dose is required for persons age 9 years and older. Children under 9 years of age may receive a second dose depending on when the first dose was given. Discuss this schedule with your doctor. Most common is soreness at the injection site which may last for up to 1-2 days.