Now that we’re in October, you’ll begin to see the usual signs of fall- pumpkins everywhere, leaves on the ground and reminders about getting your flu shot. The CDC recommends you get it by the end of October, and there are predictions that this year could bring a bad flu season, given what’s been seen elsewhere in the world. Some of us are reluctant to get the shot, as we think it could in fact give us the flu. Take a look Here to see why that’s not scientifically likely. It is true that the shot is not always effective, but even if it’s only modestly helpful, there is very little downside to getting it, and especially for older people, avoiding the flu is extremely important. Researchers now think you can even boost the effectiveness of the shot by maintaining a good mood when you get the vaccine. Check out that research Here. Finally, when your head starts to hurt, and throat begins to feel scratchy, how do you know whether it’s just a cold coming on, or something more serious like the flu? Well, Consumer Reports has a handy little chart to compare and contrast symptoms and give you advice about what to do. So grab your box of tissues, and check out the chart by Clicking Here.