The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released its annual recommendations for preventing and controlling seasonal influenza with vaccines. This is a guidance document, not a new research study. It updates advice for doctors and the public on who should get vaccinated, which vaccines to use, and when to get them for the upcoming flu season.
These recommendations are based on a review of existing scientific evidence about flu viruses and vaccines. They are created by expert committees to help protect public health. The document does not contain results from a single new trial or report on the specific effectiveness of this year's vaccines.
It is important to understand that these are official recommendations, not breaking news about a new discovery. The guidance reflects the best current practices for flu prevention. Readers should talk to their doctor or pharmacist about getting a flu shot based on this standard public health advice.