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When Is the Best Time to Get a Flu Vaccination?
The best time to get a flu vaccination is in the early fall, ideally before the flu season begins, which typically starts in October and can last until May. Getting vaccinated early allows the body to develop immunity to the flu virus before it starts circulating widely. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone aged six months and older get vaccinated annually.
Flu vaccines are updated each year to match the most common strains expected during the upcoming flu season, so it is important to get vaccinated every year. While it is best to get the vaccine before flu season starts, getting vaccinated later can still provide protection, especially if the flu season is long or if the virus circulates late in the season. Annual flu vaccination helps reduce the risk of flu-related complications and contributes to overall public health by decreasing the spread of the virus.
