The American Lung Association is urging Illinois residents to get the flu vaccine.
Pulmonologist Meilan Han says vaccinations are important both to avoid getting the disease and to protect others.
“Influenza actually does cause respiratory inflammation, but in someone for instance with a chronic health condition, that inflammation can lead to pneumonia," she said. "People can get secondary bacterial infections, and this can ultimately lead to respiratory failure and death.”
The flu vaccine is already available at many local pharmacies, and it takes about two weeks after the shot to reach full effectiveness. The ALA operates a website, getmyshot.org, with more information about the shots.