When should I get my seasonal flu shot?

Yearly flu vaccination usually begins in September or as soon as the flu vaccine is available. Vaccination should continue throughout the flu season, into December, January, and beyond. This is because the timing and duration (length) of the flu season varies. While flu outbreaks can happen as early as October, most of the time, influenza activity peaks in January or later. Over the course of the flu season, many different influenza viruses can circulate at different times and in different places. As long as flu viruses are still spreading in the community, vaccination can provide protective benefit.

Certain groups of people may benefit from vaccination as late as April or May. This is true even if flu viruses are no longer circulating in the U.S. These groups include:
 

• People who will travel to the Southern Hemisphere where flu viruses may be circulating before the following year's vaccine is available; and
   
• Children younger than 9 who were vaccinated for the first time and still have not received their second dose. Studies have shown that two doses are needed in children younger than 9 the first year they are vaccinated to maximize the protective benefit from vaccination.

The vaccine should continue to be offered to unvaccinated people throughout the flu season, as long as it is available.

Please note the flu is contagious and can spread to your family and those you love. Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting the flu vaccine.

Last Reviewed: 09/09/2011

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