Jennifer Garner is the new face of influenza

Actress Jennifer Garner wants you to get a flu shot.  She is the new national Faces of Influenza spokesperson for the American Lung Association's Influenza Prevention Program.

"Women play an important role in a family. It's our job to take care of those we love, that's why I make sure my family is protected against influenza," Jennifer says.

Many people don't know how serious influenza can be. They think it's like having alergies or getting the common cold.  It's not. Each year, approximately 226,000 people in the U.S. are hospitalized and an average of 36,000 die from the disease and its complications.  2 out of 3 Americans are recommended to get the influenza vaccine, but many do not because they aren't aware that they need it.

"Look around, and you'll see someone in your life who should receive an influenza vaccination. There's the couple with young children, like my husband (Ben Affleck) and I, or your parents, who are over 50 years of age, or your friend who will be pregnant during influenza season. It's also likely you know someone living with a serious medical condition, like asthma, COPD, heart disease, or diabetes. My own father has heart complications."

You can see one of Jennifer's public service announcements for the Faces of Influenza campaign here.