When should you get a flu shot? Costs, timing, and CDC advice for kids, pregnant women, seniors, and health workers
Below we have compiled the details about seasonal flu you need to know to protect yourself and your family.
What is flu season in the USA
Flu season in the United States generally occurs in the fall and winter, with activity most often peaking between December and February. While flu viruses circulate throughout the year, they usually begin in October; Historically, the highest infection rates occur in February, followed by December, January and March, and ending in May. Each season may vary in severity and impact as measured by infections, hospitalizations, and deaths, and the CDC is tracking this.
Best time to get a flu vaccine
Many healthcare providers begin offering the flu vaccine in early September and recommend getting the vaccine no later than the end of October so that antibodies kick in at the start of the flu season.
Speaking to Cleveland Clinic, infectious disease specialist Steven Gordon, MD, recommends getting it as soon as it’s available in your area. He also detailed that ideally you should be vaccinated by the end of October.
Dr., a medical instructor at Northwestern Medicine. Natalie Cameron suggests a similar time frame when speaking to USA Today. Experts agree that “October is a great time to get your vaccine.” After receiving the flu vaccine, your body will need about two weeks to produce antibodies and become immune to the virus.
Who should get the flu vaccine: prevention steps and strategies for 2025-2026
The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccine, as this is the most important step in reducing the risk and potentially serious complications of the flu. Vaccination helps reduce the burden of flu-related illness, hospitalizations and deaths, and can reduce the severity of illness even if you do get sick.
1. Young children
- Children 6 months and older should receive a flu vaccine every year.
- Children under 6 months are too young to be vaccinated, so caregivers need to vaccinate them to protect them.
2. Pregnant individuals
- Pregnant women should get a flu vaccine every season, including the 2025-2026 season, to protect both themselves and their babies.
3. Adults with chronic health problems
- People with chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease are at higher risk for serious flu complications and should be vaccinated annually.
4. Older adults
- Adults ages 65 and older are at higher risk for severe flu and should get vaccinated annually.
5. Healthcare workers and caregivers
- Anyone who lives with or cares for high-risk individuals, especially those who work in long-term care facilities, should get vaccinated to prevent the spread of the flu.
6. General population
- Ideally, everyone 6 months of age and older should be vaccinated by the end of October, but vaccination can continue as long as flu viruses are circulating in the community.
- During the 2025-2026 flu season, children, pregnant women, and adults can receive single-dose flu vaccine formulations that do not contain thimerosal as a preservative.
flu vaccine cost
If a patient uses an in-network provider, they should be covered at no cost by Medicare, Medicaid, and the majority of private insurance plans. For those who qualify, local health departments may also offer flu vaccinations for free or at a reduced cost.
Can I get the Covid-19 vaccine at the same time?
Dallas Health and Human Services Director Dr. quoted by AP. According to Philip Huang. “This is a good way to provide care for them,” he said, adding that it is safe to give them together.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding vaccines, your health, or the appropriate timing of vaccines.
