It's officially fall, which means respiratory virus season is right around the corner, and it's now the best time to get your flu shot, the most effective way to protect yourself against influenza this winter.

The flu is a common and highly contagious respiratory illness that spikes every year in the colder months, sickening millions and killing thousands. Anyone can get sick with influenza, but some people are at higher risk for severe disease and complications.

The seasonal flu vaccine is safe and effective. In addition to preventing illness, it prevents hospitalizations and deaths. Getting vaccinated is easy — in case you missed it, TODAY co-hosts rolled up their sleeves and got their shots live on the show to prove it.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has appr

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