Congestion. Fever. Aches and pains. Whenever someone starts to feel these symptoms during the fall and winter months, thoughts immediately turn to one of the likeliest culprits — the influenza virus.

Although the illness is not as deadly as it once was thanks to medical advances, it is still not something to be taken lightly. And it still poses considerable health risks for the elderly and infirm.

Even for those to whom the virus is likely not life threatening, few in today’s fast-paced world have the time to spend a week or more nursing their symptoms in bed. More likely, they will try to work out of a sense of obligation, thereby risking the health of their coworkers and others they may come in contact with during the day.

But protecting oneself from the flu has never been easier. Flu vaccines are readily available and often covered by insurance. They even come in the form of a nasal mist for those who can’t stand the thought of needles. Many workplaces even provide the vaccine free of charge to their employees.

So with the vaccine so readily available, why do so many opt to stay unprotected? Some defer to the myth that one can actually get the flu from the vaccine, but medical studies have shown this not to be the case. Others may claim they do not need the shot because they never get sick, but that, of course, is only true until they do. The flu does not discriminate and the only way to truly be protected is to get the vaccine.

This year has already been a particularly active year for flu cases in Louisiana, so getting the flu vaccine is more urgent than ever. This week is National Influenza Vaccination Week. There’s never been a better time to protect yourself, your family and those around you.