Flu Shot: With flu season fast approaching, many people wonder when the best time is to get vaccinated. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), for most people who only need one dose, September and October are the ideal months to get the flu shot. The agency recommends that everyone be vaccinated by the end of October. Still, a percentage of the population believes flu shots aren’t essential and can be skipped.Who Should Get a Flu Shot Every Year?The CDC and major medical organizations advise everyone aged six months and older to get a yearly flu vaccination. Despite misinformation circulating online, these recommendations have not changed.Certain groups are at higher risk of severe illness, people over 65, pregnant women, young children, and those with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or weakened immune systems. While about 71% of seniors get their flu shot each year, less than half of other adults do. In children, vaccination rates have declined in recent years, with fewer than 50% receiving the vaccine last year.Flu Shot: Why Flu Vaccines MatterFlu vaccines may not prevent every infection, but they are highly effective at reducing severe illness and hospitalizations, says Dr. Sean O’Leary of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Tens of thousands of Americans die from the flu annually. During last year’s severe season, 280 children died from flu-related complications, nearly half of whom had no prior health issues, and most had not been vaccinated.A rare but serious complication from last season was brain inflammation, which can cause seizures, hallucinations, or even death. Most affected children were unvaccinated.Flu Shots During Pregnancy Offer Dual ProtectionPregnant women need to be especially cautious. A severe flu infection can lead to hospitalization or even preterm birth. Vaccination protects both mother and baby, since infants too young for their own vaccines benefit from the mother’s antibodies. Research shows flu shots are safe and effective during pregnancy.Flu Shot: Choosing the Right VaccineFor adults 65 and older, high-dose flu shots or vaccines with immune boosters are recommended, though a standard flu shot is also effective if those options are not available.Flu Shot: Cost and Insurance CoverageFlu shots are generally free under Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans if administered through in-network providers. Local health departments may also offer low-cost or free vaccines. The at-home FluMist option may require a delivery fee, though insurance should cover the vaccine itself.Getting a Flu Shot Alongside COVID-19 VaccineIt is safe to get both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time. Dr. Philip Huang, director of Dallas Health and Human Services, says this is a convenient way to stay protected. However, availability of COVID-19 vaccines for children may be limited, as federal recommendations have shifted and parents are encouraged to make personal decisions.
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