When to Get Your Flu Shot: Expert Recommendations for Flu Vaccination
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is recommended that everyone 6 months and older receive a flu shot each season, with a few exceptions. The flu, contrary to popular belief, can have severe consequences for many individuals. In fact, the flu causes tens of thousands of deaths annually, with a range of 12,000 to 52,000 deaths between 2010 and 2020, as reported by the CDC. Vaccine experts provide insights on when to get your flu shot this year and stress the importance of getting vaccinated.
Does Everyone Need a Flu Shot?
Yes, everyone should get a flu shot. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the significance of vaccination in stopping the spread of viruses. As we face another fall season with the continued presence of viruses, it is crucial to protect ourselves against both COVID-19 and the flu. Dr. Bert E. Johansson, a vaccine expert from the National Hispanic Medical Association, emphasizes the difficulty of managing a simultaneous infection of COVID-19 and the flu, even for individuals not considered high risk. The decline in flu cases during mask mandates and the subsequent rise in cases after mask mandates were lifted in 2022 demonstrate the effectiveness of masks in preventing the flu. In fact, the U.S. experienced a 10-year high in winter flu cases in 2022. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize flu vaccination to reduce the risk of a dual infection of COVID-19 and the flu.
Your Flu Shot’s Impact Goes Beyond Personal Protection
Getting a flu shot not only protects you but also safeguards those around you. While you may experience a mild case of the flu, the same cannot be said for others. Dr. Johansson emphasizes that influenza is a killer, particularly for the young, the elderly, and individuals with underlying medical conditions such as asthma and COPD. Although some people may dismiss the flu as a minor illness, it is crucial to remember that vaccinating yourself reduces the likelihood of transmitting the flu to someone who may not be able to withstand its impact. Dr. Johansson cites studies showing that vaccinating children decreases influenza cases among the elderly. Therefore, getting a flu shot is not just for personal well-being but also for the health of vulnerable populations like grandparents.
When Is the Best Time to Get Your Flu Shot?
The ideal time to get your flu shot is as soon as it becomes available in your community, typically in September. Although the flu circulates throughout the year, it tends to increase in October and November and reaches its peak in February. Therefore, it is important to ensure you are protected before flu cases surge. Getting vaccinated early allows your body enough time to develop immunity. However, even if you miss the initial opportunity, it is still crucial to get your flu shot later in the fall. Dr. Jodie Guest, an epidemiology expert from Emory University, advises aiming to get the flu vaccine by the end of October. Ultimately, getting your flu shot at any time is better than not getting vaccinated at all. Dr. Johansson encourages people to get the flu shot even in December if it is the soonest available option. By doing so, you contribute to your community’s overall flu protection while prioritizing your own health.
The Simplicity of Combining Flu and COVID Vaccination
Getting your flu shot can be conveniently done alongside receiving the new COVID booster. The updated COVID vaccine offers protection against the latest subvariants and reduces the risk of severe outcomes like hospitalization and death. Dr. Guest assures that the COVID vaccine is effective against the current variants circulating globally. Combining the flu shot and the COVID booster is safe and can be administered simultaneously, with one shot in each arm. This approach may be particularly beneficial for individuals who experience uneasiness regarding shots. Consolidating the vaccinations into one appointment ensures greater compliance.
Consult your doctor to discuss the flu shot and make a plan to get vaccinated before flu cases intensify. Protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community by taking this important step towards a healthier future.
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