Jennifer Garner Puts Flu Shot in the Spotlight

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Unlike the 2004-2005 season, when production troubles caused a shortfall in available vaccine, there should be plenty of doses to go around this year, said Dr. Anne Schuchat, director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases.

"This year, we have already distributed 103 million doses of vaccine, and that's more than we distributed the entire season last year," she said. "By the end of December, it could be up to 132 million doses, which is more than 10 million more than we have ever produced. So, we're pretty optimistic."

Garner believes she and other moms are key to helping flu-vaccination efforts reach their targets.

"I understand the important role mothers play in our families' health and well-being -- it is our natural instinct to take care of our families and keep them protected," she said. "This includes talking to our doctors about whether influenza vaccination is right for ourselves and our loved ones."

More information

To find a flu vaccine clinic near you, and for more information on influenza, visit the American Lung Association.