Sniffling, coughing, high fevers and aching are all symptoms of the annual illness that affects up to 20 percent of the U.S. population, but can be easily prevented by getting a vaccine. 

Every year researchers create vaccines that contain certain strains of influenza, more commonly know as the flu, that they think will prevent the sickness for the upcoming winter season.

Everyone older than six months is recommended to get some form of the vaccine, whether it be through a shot or nasal spray. The nasal spray should only be given to those who are apprehensive about shots, since the shot has been found to be more effective in preventing the flu.

“The shots scare me and they hurt, so I’m getting the flu mist instead,” sophomore Katie McCann said.

The nasal spray contains a weakened form of the activated, or “live”, virus so that it can cause users to experience symptoms similar to those of the flu.

“The flu mist feels really weird and it’s a little awkward, but it’s much better than the shot,” McCann said. “After getting it [last year] I sneezed a lot, but other than that I was a-okay.”

The shot is created from a dead flu virus, but still faces a drawback in that it has to be injected and can cause some soreness.

“The shot went better better than usual, but my arm hurt for about two days after and I got a little sick with very moderate flu symptoms,” Stewart said.

Those who work at AHS will be getting their flu shots for free on the Monday, November 7, which is a teacher work day.

Although most doctors recommend getting either the shot or nasal spray to avoid the flu, some people choose not to get the vaccination because they feel that they do not need it.

“I have never gotten the flu shot because my family thinks it’s a waste of money,” junior Meghan Lynn said. “By getting the flu it will help you build your immune system and you won’t get the flu anymore or need the shot.”

Flu vaccinations are typically less than $25 and most insurance companies cover their cost. Vaccinations can be found at a variety of pharmacies around the area or at a personal physician’s office.