Ready or not, another flu season is here. If you dread the thought of getting sick—that’s no fun!—get the flu vaccine.

Everyone 6 months and older needs to be vaccinated against the flu every year. Plan to get your vaccination by the end of October, before the flu starts spreading.

You need a new flu shot every year because the vaccine may need to be updated to match new viruses. Also, vaccine immunity gradually fades. So last year’s flu shot may no longer protect you.

Annual flu vaccinations are especially important for people who are most likely to develop serious complications from the flu.

This includes young children; pregnant women; adults 65 and older; and people with certain chronic conditions, including asthma, diabetes and heart disease.

Different types of flu vaccines are available. There’s even a needle-free option for some people. Ask your provider what’s right for you.

Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; U.S. Food and Drug Administration