Flu Season is Here: Protect Yourself Before It Peaks
Flu season is almost here and now is the time to protect yourself and your loved ones from this serious, highly contagious illness.
Influenza is an infectious respiratory illness that causes fever, congestion, body aches, chills, and fatigue.
It’s spread through the air via droplets and germs, especially when people sneeze or cough in public settings.
It can make you feel miserable, and for some, it can be life-threatening.
The flu vaccine remains one of the best tools to reduce your risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Even in years when the match between vaccine strains and circulating viruses isn’t perfect, vaccination tends to lessen side effects of the flu.
Who Should Get the Vaccine?
The following groups are especially encouraged to get vaccinated:
- Anyone 6 months of age or older
- Pregnant women
- People with long-term chronic conditions
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities
- People who live with or care for high-risk individuals
Timing and Other Considerations
- Aim to get your vaccine by the end of October which gives your body about two weeks to build a protective response before flu activity typically increases.
- Don’t skip getting vaccinated just because you missed October. It’s still beneficial later in the season if influenza viruses are circulating.
- For older adults 65 years and older, there are enhanced flu vaccine options (high-dose or adjuvanted formulations) designed to produce a stronger immune response. Ask your healthcare provider if you’re interested in these options.