Flu season is upon us in Illinois and health officials say getting a flu shot can cut down your chances of getting the bug.  Dr. Janak Koirala, with the SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, says especially people with chronic diseases should be vaccinated.

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Dr. Koirala adds the vaccination will help protect you throughout the winter.

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Dr. Koirala says flu vaccinations definitely reduce the severity of the symptoms and decrease the spread of the disease.  Individuals who have the flu should be vigilant about washing their hands and staying home from work or school so they don't cause others to get sick.  The flu virus sends more than 200-thousand Americans to the hospital each year and it is among the leading causes of death for senior citizens.