With flu season fast approaching, when is the right time to get the flu vaccine?
For most people who only need one flu shot, September and October are generally the best times to get vaccinated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.
“Ideally, everyone should be vaccinated by the end of October,” the agency said.
CDC flu vaccination recommendation: “Continue vaccination throughout the season”
The agency said other groups, such as those over 65 and pregnant women, should not be vaccinated before September because protection may weaken over time.
The CDC suggests that September and October are generally the best times to get a flu shot. (iStock)
“However, for those who are unable to return for vaccination at a later date, earlier vaccination may be considered,” the CDC said.
“After getting the vaccine, it takes about two weeks for your body to produce antibodies that provide protection against the flu.”
Some children may need to get two doses of the vaccine, the agency said.
The target population includes children aged 6 months to 8 years who are receiving the vaccine for the first time, children who have not received a total of two or more influenza vaccinations in their lifetime, and children whose influenza vaccination history is unknown.
The CDC says that for children who only need one dose, early vaccinations can be considered in July and August. (iStock)
The CDC recommends that these children receive the first dose of the vaccine as soon as it is available, with at least a four-week gap between the two doses.
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According to the agency, early vaccinations will be available in July and August for children who only need one dose and for people who are in the late stages of pregnancy.
Pregnant women should not get vaccinated before September, according to CDC guidelines. (iStock)
“This may help protect infants during the first months of life, when they are too young to be vaccinated,” the CDC noted.
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Flu vaccinations are available to anyone 6 months of age or older, either as a shot or nasal spray, depending on their age.
“Ideally, everyone should be vaccinated by the end of October.”
Senior Healthcare Analyst for Fox News NYU Langone Medical Center“The time to get your flu shot is within the next month or two,” he told Fox News Digital.
“The effectiveness of the flu shot lasts for six to nine months, and flu season usually peaks in January or February,” he added.
A Walgreens spokesperson said vaccinations should continue throughout the season as long as the flu virus is circulating. (iStock)
A Walgreens spokesperson reiterated the CDC recommendation to get vaccinated by the end of October, but added that people should continue getting vaccinated throughout the season as long as the flu virus is circulating.
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“After vaccination, it takes approximately two weeks for your body to produce antibodies that provide protection against the flu,” the spokesperson told Fox News Digital.
“Getting vaccinated now will ensure you and your loved ones have the best possible protection as children return to school and we head into the holiday season.”
