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.
Children under 9 years of age will need 2 doses of the vaccine the first year they are vaccinated. The first dose would ideally be given in September or as soon as the vaccine is available. The second dose should be given at least 28 days (4 weeks) after the first dose. If a child needs 2 doses, it is best to begin the process early so that the child is protected before flu season starts circulating in his or her community.
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
- 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.
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. Get the flu vaccine.
See also: Where will the shots be available?
Vaccine Information Statements
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/vis/default.htm
Prevention and Control of Influenza: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), 2008 http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/PDF/rr/rr5707.pdf
Key Facts About Seasonal Flu Vaccine
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/keyfacts.htm
2009-10 Influenza Prevention and Control Recommendations: Timing of Vaccination http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/acip/timing.htm
Last Updated: 08/21/2009
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