If you’re thinking about skipping the flu shot this year, you might want to reconsider. Although the vaccine may not be as effective, it’s better than nothing. 

You’ve probably heard the reports: this year’s flu season is shaping up to be a nasty one. And the flu vaccine many of us got is not fully effective against the H3N2 influenza-A strain that’s floating around.

"Years in which that type of virus predominate tend to be worse years than when either of the other two dominate. So that’s sort of the warning flag coming up that this could be a really bad year," said Maricopa County Department of Public Health Director Dr. Bob England.

England said that even though the vaccine is not a perfect match, it’s worth getting. He said it may minimize hospital visits and lower the death rate stemming from flu complications. 

England recommends older adults, those with chronic health conditions, pregnant women and small children get the flu shot.