School, football and changing weather – the classic signs of fall – are in full swing, which means flu season has arrived as well.

Flu – influenza, formally – is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. About five percent to 20 percent of U.S. residents get the flu each year, according to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.

The flu costs the United States more than $87 billion annually and is responsible for the loss of about 17 million workdays and substantial classroom time each flu season, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Despite the evidence and recommendations, many people won’t get vaccinated this year – which makes it more likely they will get and transmit the flu. UnitedHealthcare shared a few suggestions on how to beat flu season.

The flu shot is not expensive.

In most cases, the cost of a flu shot is covered by your health plan, whether you buy health insurance on your own or are covered through your employer, Medicare or Medicaid. More employers are now offering free onsite flu shot clinics at the office. The financial and personal costs and the potential for missed days of work or school from the flu far exceed the cost of the vaccination.

Young, healthy people get the flu, too.

Influenza does not discriminate against age or health habits. Just because you’re young or don’t typically get sick doesn’t mean you can’t catch the flu. You can catch the flu from someone who has yet to exhibit any signs or symptoms of being sick.

Getting the flu shot vaccine is fast, easy and convenient.

Getting a flu shot takes no more than five minutes. Most neighborhood pharmacies even offer walk-in options, so you don’t need to make an appointment. If you are unemployed or your employer doesn’t offer flu shots, you can go to your primary care doctor or nearby wellness clinic, most retail pharmacies or contracted flu shot providers. To find a list of flu shot providers near you, visit Flu.gov.