Experts Weigh In: Optimal Timing for Your Flu Shot This Season

POLICY WIRE — Washington, D.C. — As autumn approaches, Americans are urged to consider getting their annual flu vaccination. Federal data indicates that last year’s vaccines prevented approximately 10 million flu-related illnesses.

The flu claims the lives of around 45,000 individuals annually in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone aged six months and older should receive a flu shot, which is now available across the nation.

Health experts generally advise that the optimal time for receiving the flu shot is between September and October. Dr. Stephen Thacker, a pediatric infectious diseases specialist at the Medical University of South Carolina, suggests that while some regions may experience an earlier flu surge, he generally recommends getting the shot in October, but no later than November.

It takes about two weeks for the vaccine to become effective, according to Dr. Michael Dunn, an Arizona primary care physician. Dr. Thacker also emphasizes the importance of monitoring local and state health messaging regarding increasing flu cases.

Although the CDC has not yet released guidance for the 2026 flu season, Dr. Thacker anticipates that most recommendations will remain consistent with last year. High-risk groups include children under five, pregnant women, individuals with compromised immune systems, and seniors over 65.

This season introduces a significant change with the addition of the first mRNA flu vaccine, developed by Moderna and approved for individuals over 50. Known as mFLUSIVA, this vaccine is 25 percent more effective in protecting people in this age group compared to traditional shots. However, Dr. Thacker notes that there may be operational challenges in making this vaccine widely available due to the timing of orders placed by pharmacies and health systems.

Despite the benefits, fewer Americans are opting for seasonal vaccines, including those for flu and Covid. A poll from the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases revealed that less than half of U.S. adults had been immunized against any respiratory virus by November 2025.

Currently, flu levels are low across the U.S., according to the CDC. However, Covid cases are on the rise in every state except Iowa. The Trump administration recently approved new Covid vaccines, which will be available shortly.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)