(NC) If you’re an adult, you may be skeptical about whether you need a yearly shot against influenza. Will it help? Can you get a mild case of the flu from the vaccine?

As you age, your immune system gets weaker, making it harder to fight off viruses such as the flu. And people 65 years of age or older are at greater risk of getting seriously ill or dying from the flu,   especially if there are underlying medical conditions.

A recent Canadian study found that getting sick with the flu could increase the risk of having a heart attack, especially among those over 65.

Getting a flu shot is the best way to protect you and your family because it lowers your risk of serious complications like pneumonia.

Health experts recommend getting vaccinated every year, as the flu viruses are always changing. The vaccine is designed before each flu season to protect against the most common influenza viruses expected to go around.

The flu shot is safe. Every batch of vaccine is tested according to strict guidelines for safety and quality before it is used. And contrary to what some people think, you can’t get the flu from the flu vaccine.

Find more information online at ontario.ca/flu.