As flu season approaches, health experts emphasize the importance of getting vaccinated against influenza in a timely manner. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals receive their flu shot by the end of October to ensure maximum immunity. This is particularly critical as flu season typically spans from October to May, with cases peaking between December and February.
Dr. Kawsar Talaat, an associate professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, notes that it takes approximately two weeks for the immune system to build a robust response to the vaccine, including the generation of necessary antibodies. “The perfect time to get vaccinated against the flu is right before cases start to take off,” he explains.
However, practical considerations often complicate vaccination timelines. Many pharmacies, clinics, and doctors’ offices may become overwhelmed as the end of October approaches. Dr. Talaat reassures that it is not too early to get vaccinated if an opportunity arises. “We have seen flu circulate as early as October, so it’s not too early to get vaccinated now,” he said. Although vaccine protection may diminish after three to four months, it does not drop to zero, meaning that individuals can still benefit from earlier vaccinations.
Certain populations should be particularly mindful of when they get vaccinated. Dr. Robert Jacobson from Mayo Clinic advises that children under nine years receiving the flu shot for the first time need two doses spaced a month apart, making late July or August ideal for vaccinations before the school year begins. Additionally, individuals aged 65 and older are encouraged to get vaccinated early, as they are at a higher risk for complications from the flu.
Pregnant women in their third trimester should also consider receiving their vaccinations in July or August to pass protective antibodies to their unborn babies. This early vaccination is essential since infants typically do not receive their first flu vaccine until around six months of age.
Flu shots are not only crucial for preventing influenza but also for reducing the risk of complications related to other health issues, such as heart attacks and strokes. Dr. Talaat explains that flu infections can worsen inflammation, contributing to various health concerns.
When it comes to effectiveness, the flu vaccine can offer substantial protection against circulating strains, particularly when the shot closely matches those strains. While efficacy may be around 50% in a good year, vaccinated individuals are more likely to experience milder symptoms if they do contract the virus, and they face a reduced risk of hospitalization and death, especially among older populations.
Importantly, individuals can receive both the flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine simultaneously. Research by Dr. Talaat indicates that receiving both vaccinations does not increase the risk of side effects. “We have not found any interference with flu and COVID-19 vaccines,” Dr. Jacobson confirmed, urging the public to stay up-to-date on all vaccinations.
As flu season looms, health officials encourage everyone to prioritize their flu shots, regardless of the timing, as a crucial step toward safeguarding their health and the well-being of the community.