What You Need to Know About Bird Flu Vaccines

Flu is generally a health concern in the fall and winter, but this spring and summer, influenza—specifically avian influenza, or bird flu—is dominating headlines and weighing heavily on the minds of health experts.

H5N1 is infecting chickens in at least 48 U.S. states and cows in at least 12. So far, only three people—all dairy workers—have had recorded infections, but health officials are keeping a close eye on whether the virus is getting better at infecting humans. Preparing for that possibility includes readying a vaccine.

Here's what to know—along with if, and when, you might be recommended to get immunized.