Senior Advocate: Thank you for your time, Flu Fighter.

Flu Fighter: It’s my pleasure. I’m here to clear the air once and for all.

SA: About what?

FF: About what that flu bug is saying about me. He wants to ruin my reputation as a defender of the healthy. It’s because of his trash talking that people believe those myths about what the influenza vaccine will do to them.

SA: So it’s not true that the vaccine can give you the flu virus or cause side effects?

FF: Absolutely not! I protect people from the flu, not give it to them. Allergic reactions to flu shots are rare. Shots aren’t recommended for people with an egg allergy or those who’ve had a severe allergic reaction in the past. For the general population, though, the biggest side effect is a little arm soreness—a far cry from what could happen if you don’t get the shot. I’m proud of my protective powers—they’re up to 90 percent effective!

SA: But your arch rival packs quite a punch, too.

FF: That’s the one thing he hasn’t lied about. He’s ruthless—the sneezing, sore throats, coughing, fatigue, aches and fever can take a toll on those who aren’t vaccinated. And the most vulnerable groups, like seniors, risk being hospitalized with pneumonia or other serious complications. In fact, 114,000 flu patients are hospitalized and 36,000 die every year. That’s why I won’t rest until he surrenders! There’s just one thing

SA: And what’s that?

FF: I’m tough, but I can’t do it alone. To stop the flu bug from striking, I need Chicagoland seniors to join me in the fight against the flu by getting their flu vaccinations this fall. Together, we can show that bug who’s boss!