Many people at high risk of flu infection think they're in a low-risk group according to a study conducted during the flu vaccine shortage of 2004-2005 by the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill School of Public Health. Significantly, only 26 percent of adults at high risk but under the age of 65 were vaccinated, despite recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

"We need to be clearer about who is in the high risk groups," says Dr. Noel T. Brewer, UNC assistant professor of health behavior and health education. "If we can frame health messages around easily identifiable risk categories, then others - including family and friends of high risk individuals - can help persuade those at high risk to get their flu shot. This simple message could well save lives."

Fortunately, there is no shortage this flu season, so you have no excuse for not getting a flu shot, particularly if you are in a high-risk group.

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