The American Lung Association is intensifying its seasonal influenza public education initiative to urge individuals to get vaccinated as soon as possible. The Faces of Influenza educational campaign is a collaboration between the American Lung Association and sanofi pasteur, and aims to ensure Americans get immunized against seasonal influenza.

Each year, seasonal influenza causes an estimated 36,000 deaths and more than 226,000 hospitalizations from the virus and its related complications.  It is especially important for those in high-risk groups and their close contacts to get immunized against seasonal influenza to avoid serious complications from infection. Immunization throughout the full season is beneficial, as seasonal influenza virus activity typically peaks in February or March.

With more than 80 percent of the U.S. population recommended to receive the vaccine, chances are we all know someone who should get vaccinated against seasonal influenza this and every year. The American Lung Association encourages everyone to visit www.facesofinfluenza.org to learn more about influenza, and the groups recommended for annual vaccination against this seasonal disease.