The arrival of fall brings colorful leaves, crisp air, Halloween decorations, and unfortunately, the flu season. Influenza viruses begin circulating widely, with cases typically peaking in December and continuing through winter. The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) recommends everyone aged six months and older get vaccinated against the flu before the end of October. Even if you miss that deadline, getting vaccinated later in the fall or winter can still offer protection.
Why Get Vaccinated?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also emphasizes the importance of getting the latest flu shot, alongside updated COVID-19 boosters. It’s safe to receive both vaccines concurrently. While some individuals experience mild side effects like achiness or fever after receiving the flu shot, these are typically a result of the body building immunity, not an actual infection. It’s crucial to remember: the flu vaccine does not cause autism.
Flu vs. Flu-Like Symptoms: A Critical Difference
Experiencing side effects from the vaccine is significantly different from having the flu. While both may involve similar symptoms, the actual flu virus can be dangerous and even deadly. According to the FDA, the 2023-24 flu season resulted in 25,000 to 72,000 flu-related deaths in the U.S., along with up to 830,000 hospitalizations and 30 million flu-related medical visits. During the previous, milder flu season, the vaccine is estimated to have prevented 3,700 deaths, 65,000 hospitalizations, and six million illnesses.
Who Should Get Vaccinated and When?
The FDA strongly recommends that children, pregnant individuals, and people over 65—groups most vulnerable to serious complications—get vaccinated promptly. Even those who have had the flu recently should get vaccinated due to the circulation of multiple virus strains. Visit vaccine.gov to find vaccination locations near you. An at-home nasal spray flu vaccine, approved by the FDA in September, may also be available through online pharmacies.
Additional Protective Measures
While vaccination is essential, it’s not foolproof. The 2021 flu vaccine, for example, was only about 14% effective. A universal flu vaccine is under development but not yet available for widespread use. To further reduce your risk, the CDC recommends avoiding close contact with sick individuals, frequent handwashing with soap or alcohol-based sanitizer, avoiding touching your face, and using an air purifier indoors. Covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing and wearing a mask can also be helpful.
Conclusion: Stay Healthy This Flu Season
Getting your flu shot is a crucial step in protecting yourself and others this fall and winter. Combine vaccination with other preventive measures to minimize your risk of getting sick and enjoy a healthy season.
