Panel recommends annual flu vaccinations for all

(AP) -- A government panel is now recommending that virtually all Americans get a flu shot each year.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices had gradually been expanding its recommendation for flu shots so that 85 percent of Americans were included.

The panel on Wednesday voted to recommend a seasonal flu vaccination for everyone except babies younger than 6 months and those with egg allergies or other unusual conditions.

The panel's recommendation now goes to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC usually follows the panel's advice and spreads the message to doctors and hospitals across the country.