From mandating seat belts to banning high-sugar drinks, government is fond of trying to run our lives, sometimes to the point where we want to say, “Back off, please.”

Most of what the state mandates we can comfortably live with, if we’re of a responsible nature. But once in a while, we have to be reminded how to be responsible. Flu season is one of those times.

The Illinois Department of Public Health is at this moment advising people that it’s time to get a flu shot. The vaccine is arriving at local health departments, pharmacies and health care clinics. Along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the state recommends everyone 6 months and older get a shot as soon as it is available.