When Is the Best Time to Get My Flu Shot?

Prepare for Flu Season By Getting Vaccinated

Every year, flu season sneaks up on us and disrupts our lives — whether this means missing a day at work, rescheduling plans out, or more severe infection for at-risk patients. While you can do what you can to stay healthy at home, the best way to protect yourself and your family from the flu is to get a flu shot.

Wondering when the best time to get your flu shot is? Here’s what you need to know.

Why Annual Flu Shots Are Vital

Most people know that getting a flu shot can help protect them from getting sick with the flu. But did you know that it's important to get a flu shot every year?

With the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic, many patients have forgotten about protecting themselves from seasonal influenza. In the meantime, the flu virus changes from one year to the next, which means getting your flu vaccine this and every other year helps to boost your immunity and protect against the most common strains of the virus. It also helps to prevent the spreading of the disease through our local community.

When to Schedule Your Appointment

Flu shots are recommended for everyone six months of age and older, and The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people get vaccinated against the flu starting in October. The earlier you get your shot means the sooner your immune system can start producing antibodies — typically within two weeks. However, getting vaccinated later is still beneficial and can help protect you from the flu through the end of flu season, which typically occurs in May.

High-risk Patients

Patients who are at a higher risk of severe complications of the flu should plan to get their flu shot sooner rather than later, including:

• Children aged 6 months to 4 years.
• Adults aged 65 years and older.
• Pregnant women.
• People with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.

Flu Shot Appointments in Bishop, CA

So if you haven't gotten your flu shot yet, there's no need to panic. Just make sure to get vaccinated as soon as possible! Northern Inyo Healthcare District’s Rural Health Clinic is here to help keep your family happy and healthy through flu season. To schedule a flu shot appointment please call 760-873-2849.