Flu season typically runs from October to February each fall and winter. It’s important to make a plan to get the flu shot, especially because of other respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
This article is from MIBlue Daily, brought to you by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
Although a vaccinated person can still get the flu, the shot reduces the severity and the risk of serious complications, including hospitalization. The CDC recommends being vaccinated for both influenza and COVID-19, and it is safe to get both vaccines at the same time. Before you head to your doctor, clinic or participating pharmacy to get your flu shot, there are six things to know:
- It takes two weeks for the vaccine to kick in and offer full protection.
- Getting the flu shot cannot cause you to get the flu.
- It’s generally fine to get a flu shot if you have a mild cold, but it’s best to wait if you have a fever.
- The flu vaccine is updated annually to target various flu viruses that change from year to year.
- Talk to your PCP if you have a history of severe allergic reactions to vaccines or an allergy to eggs.
- Everyone six months and older should get the flu vaccine with rare exceptions, per CDC recommendations.
Children under the age of six months are too young to receive the vaccine, but if you’re pregnant, the CDC recommends you get the flu shot. It will protect both you and your baby from serious flu complications.
