It really is not too late. There is still time left, not much time though, to get a flu shot.

The dreaded symptoms of the flu seem to be seeping into people all around us. Many of our neighbors are experiencing a sore throat, feeling achy, coughing and even getting fevers, chills and fatigued.

Flu season arrived early in Alabama this year compared to years past when it arrives in late December, but in 2012 it made an appearance in late November. Today the flu is reported to be possibly one of the worst outbreaks physicians have seen.

But as we said there is still time. There is time to get a vaccination for the flu. And while this vaccination is optional — for small children and our elderly friends it should not be.

We all need to do our part in encouraging  our elderly friends and young children to get these vaccinations. While some of us can take an Emergen-C and perk right up, they cannot. The flu in these age groups can sadly lead to severe complications and sometimes it can be fatal.

When we do not get vaccinated, we are putting ourself and others at risk. Be considerate to co-workers and friends by getting vaccinated so the contagious virus will stop its tornado-like path through Selma and the rest of the state.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention people with the flu can spread it to others up to about six feet away. Most experts think that the flu viruses are mostly spread by droplets made when people with the flu sneeze, cough or even talk.

All of the myths about the flu vaccine are just that — they are myths. Some are mislead to believe that the flu shot actually gives people the flu virus instead of preventing it, and this is not true. In randomized studies by manufacturers of the vaccine, those were given the shot and just administered a salt-water shot had the same symptoms.

The flu virus is very contagious and we urge our readers  to do their part to prevent spreading the virus. Wash your hands often with soap and water, and consider getting your flu shot. Everyone at least 6 months of age should get their flu vaccination.