Doctors recommend anyone who is 6 months or older get a flu shot, even older adults. Since the flu evolves every year and different strains are more prominent than others, an annual vaccination is best. As fall marks the start of flu season, Americans are encouraged to get protected early.

In 2012, two-thirds of adults 65 and older were vaccinated for the flu, which is an increase in the last few years, according to the Associated Press.

Boston.com reported that many of the individuals who are hospitalized because of the flu are older adults. The elderly are more susceptible to developing illnesses than younger individuals because of a weakened immune system. The typical symptoms of the flu include fever and cough as well as a sore throat, runny nose, muscle aches, headache, vomiting and diarrhea.

This year, in an effort to reach out to more people, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is offering four different vaccine options to choose from that will help to protect you from three types of influenza.

One type of protection being offered against the flu is a nasal spray vaccine, however, this is not recommended for older adults. There’s also a version of the shot that contains no eggs, for those who have severe egg allergies and have not been able to get vaccinated in the past. Adults can choose from an injection that goes into the skin instead of the muscle as well as a higher dose version for those 65 and older.

Older adults who want to be vaccinated for the flu can talk to their senior care services provider.