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Although the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend more than 80% of Americans get flu shots, a new survey of mothers says 40% had a healthcare professional neither recommend, nor discuss, influenza immunization. Only one-third of mothers questioned in the survey, commissioned by the American Lung Association, reported their child's pediatrician mentioned influenza vaccination for their kids.

To encourage annual influenza immunizations, the American Lung Association began a national Faces of Influenza campaign, which is being led by spokeswoman Kristi Yamaguchi, a gold medal-winning U.S. figure skater. For information, log on to www.FacesofInfluenza.org.

In related news, a new survey from ConsumerReportsHealth.org says only 52% of Americans plan to get the flu vaccine this year despite it being a well-known option for prevention. The report discovered a long list of excuses for people not getting flu shots, including 5% of respondents who said they would rather get sick than go to work.

Despite there being many reasons people do not get flu shots, cost is among the least of concerns. Among those who already have been vaccinated, 65% reported no out-of-pocket expense in getting a flu shot.

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