Influenza vaccine guidelines set by CDC: Who needs flu shot?

(CBS) Who should get a flu shot this year? Just about everyone six months of age or older.

That's the word from the CDC, which said flu vaccinations for all make sense even though this season's flu strains are the same as those from last year.

What about people who got a flu shot last year? They need a flu shot this year too because antibodies to influenza decline over the course of the year, particularly in elderly people and those with compromised immune systems.

"So even people that got a flu vaccine last year should get vaccinated again this year to ensure that they are optimally protected," CDC immunization specialists Dr. Carolyn Bridges said on Thursday in a media briefing.

Flu shots may be off-limits to people with a severe allergy to eggs and others who have previously exhibited an allergic reaction to a flu shot. But such reactions are rare.

When should people get vaccinated? In September, or as soon as vaccine is available.

The agency predicted there would be no shortage of flu vaccines this year.

The CDC has more on seasonal influenza.