Fall Flu Shots: Now’s the Time to Protect You and Your Family
It's not a cold...it's much worse. With the arrival of fall comes the start of flu season. But when is the best time to get a flu shot, and why is it so important? Learn everything you need to know about protecting yourself and your loved ones from the flu in this WFMY 2 Your Well-Being conversation with Cynthia Snider, MD, Infection Prevention Medical Director, Cone Health.
When Do I Need to Get a Flu Shot?
The best time to get your flu shot is now. Dr. Snider recommends getting vaccinated before the end of October to ensure you're protected as the season ramps up. It's difficult to predict when the flu will start to circulate widely, so the sooner you're prepared, the better.
What about COVID-19 or RSV?
You can receive the COVID and RSV vaccines if you are eligible, as they also help prevent pneumonia. You can safely get the flu, COVID, and RSV vaccines all at the same time at any Cone Health Community Pharmacy. If you prefer, you can also stagger them, but there's no danger in getting them all at once. It's "one-stop shopping" for your health.
Should my Grandpa, Pregnant Sister or Child get the Flu Shot?
The flu shot is approved for almost everyone over six months old. While it's recommended for a wide range of people, it's especially important for those at higher risk of complications, including:
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People over 65 (who can get a high-dose vaccine.)
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Those with underlying health conditions like heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, or obesity.
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People who are immunocompromised.
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Pregnant women.
Why Get the Shot if I Could Still Get the Flu?
Many people think the flu is just a bad cold, but it's much more severe. As Dr. Snider puts it, the flu can make you feel like you've "been hit by a bus." It can lay you out for days, causing you to miss work and spreading to your family members.
The flu vaccine helps reduce the severity of the illness, lower your risk of hospitalization and prevent the spread to immunocompromised community members. For individuals with underlying health issues, the flu can cause serious complications, such as a mild heart attack or the worsening of respiratory conditions.
What are Common Side Effects?
The flu shot contains an inactivated, or "killed," virus. This means it's impossible to get the flu from the vaccine. So, why do some people feel sick afterward? The common side effects include:
- A sore arm.
- Low-grade fever.
- General body aches.
These are simply your body's immune system reacting to the vaccine and building the antibodies needed to fight off the virus. These symptoms usually last only a day or so and are a sign that the vaccine is working.
For children, the side effects are similar and are typically well-tolerated. It's a small price to pay for the protection the vaccine provides.
What is the Nasal Spray Vaccine?
For those who don't like needles, there is a needleless option called FluMist, a nasal spray vaccine. However, this is a live, attenuated vaccine and has some limitations.
It's recommended for:
It is not recommended for:
- Anyone who is pregnant.
- Immunocompromised individuals.
- Anyone who lives with an immunocompromised person.
It's also less common than the shot, so be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacy to see if they carry it.
What Else Can I Do to Stay Safe?
In addition to getting vaccinated, there are some simple, everyday habits that can help you and your family stay healthy:
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Wash your hands often to prevent the spread of germs.
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Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue to avoid spreading germs to your hands.
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If you start to feel ill, avoid work, school or busy gatherings to protect others. Wearing a mask can also help prevent the spread of the virus.
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At-home combination tests for flu and COVID are now widely available and can help you determine what you have since the symptoms can be similar.
