How to get the flu shot, even without a chronic illness

What is the flu?
The flu is an illness that has struck the United States in large numbers over the last several years.
About 10% of the U.S. population now is at risk for a flu infection, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
It can be deadly and has a high mortality rate.
It causes flu-like symptoms, including cough, fever and runny nose.
It can be fatal in as little as two weeks, but can be more severe.
Symptoms include fever, runny noses, headache, fatigue and muscle aches.
The CDC says the symptoms are often mild or nonspecific.
In fact, it has found that people with chronic illness and chronic cough are most likely to get a flu shot.
And they don’t have to get one.
“If someone who has a chronic cough has a fever and a fever is associated with the flu, they can get the influenza vaccine and be protected against the flu,” said Dr. Matthew P. Heffernan, a professor of epidemiology at the University of Alabama School of Public Health.
If you or someone you know has symptoms of the flu and has symptoms or symptoms of pneumonia, such as pneumonia requiring hospitalization, seek medical attention.
This is a developing story.
Please check back for updates.