Why the flu shot is as important as ever this year

With the leaves and temperatures falling and pumpkin spice in the air, it's time to think about the health of both you and your community. That’s right, it's flu season and October is a great time to get your annual flu vaccine. 

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), everyone 6 months and older, with rare exceptions, should get a flu vaccine every flu season. 

“It's best to get the vaccine in October before influenza season gets into full swing,” said Tammy Donoway, DO, of TidalHealth Primary Care in Berlin. “It takes about two weeks for your body to develop the antibodies that give you immunity. You want to make sure to have the highest immunity during the peak of flu season (December-January), but if you miss that time frame, you should still get the vaccine, because flu season can last through May.” 

Like many viruses, influenza proliferates during the fall and winter due to a range of factors that create a perfect environment for spreading across the community. 

“Typically, viruses such as influenza survive and spread more easily in colder, drier air,” said Nurse Practitioner Jordan Braniff, DNP, CRNP, FNP-C, also of TidalHealth Primary Care in Berlin. “Additionally, people spend more time in the fall and winter inside and are closer together, which increases transmission. That is why flu season peaks in the colder months. Other viruses also tend to be more active during this time.” 

The easy spread of the flu virus across an unvaccinated population puts those who are more vulnerable at greater risk. Those risk groups include adults over 65, children under 5, pregnant women and people with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems. Infants younger than 6 months of age cannot be vaccinated, and the vaccine is also less effective in people with certain health conditions, leaving more of the population vulnerable. 

"I get my flu shot every year,” said Lillian Mumford, a patient at TidalHealth Primary Care in Berlin.  “I do this not just for my own health, but for those around me, especially friends and family who are more likely to get the flu. I have elderly parents with diabetes, and my sister just had her first baby. I have peace of mind knowing that I am doing my part to prevent the spread of flu to my family and friends who are most at risk." 

Even if you feel you rarely get sick, it’s worth getting the vaccine to help protect your loved ones and community. 

“Very healthy people can get and spread the flu,” Dr. Donoway said. “This can happen even before they become symptomatic. The vaccine can help prevent the transmissions of the flu even when you do not know that you have the virus to start with. The asymptomatic period — where a patient is contagious without knowing — is the time frame most worrisome. You can pass the flu to others, particularly those who are at high risk of severe illness.” 

And if you are afraid of needles, the CDC has approved the use of an inhaled flu vaccine that can be used by eligible children and adults. Not all are eligible, so the TidalHealth Primary Care team points out that you should consult your doctor. 

Most healthcare insurance plans cover the annual flu vaccination as preventive care. Flu vaccination is often available at no or low cost to people who do not have insurance.  

“It’s important to remember that influenza is not just a ‘bad cold.’” Braniff said. “It can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, hospitalizations or worse, especially in vulnerable groups. Annual vaccinations are one of our most simple and effective tools for improving the health of our community during flu season. Even if it does not prevent every case, it makes the flu much milder and helps protect your loved ones.”