If you’ve been delaying (or skipping) your annual flu shot, it’s time to reconsider.

The relatively minor symptoms that most people think of as having the flu—headaches, tiredness, upset stomach—are not usually caused by the influenza virus at all. That’s because the influenza virus (the real flu) is a much more serious disease.

Getting a flu shot is a simple way to protect yourself and the people around you from the real, potentially deadly flu virus.

Free or low-cost flu shots are available at most drugstores and pharmacies, and most insurance will reimburse you for the cost if you send in your receipt.

Source: Oregon Health Authority