The benefits of flu shots: Stay protected this flu season

As the daylight hours get shorter and the weather gets cooler, we know that flu season is here. The flu affects millions of people in the US every year. It can be very serious: the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there have been up to 75 million cases of flu and between 380,000 and 900,000 hospitalizations for flu in the last year.

Most of us will come down with a case of the flu at some point in our lives. Fortunately, the flu shot can provide protection and reduce the severity of symptoms. By getting vaccinated, you're protecting yourself and helping to reduce the strain on healthcare systems.

Below, we’ll cover some important information about flu vaccines, such as: when you should get it, how it works and its effectiveness. We also address some common misconceptions and provide some flu shot facts so you can make an informed decision.

When should you get your flu shot?

The CDC recommends that everyone over the age of six months should receive a flu shot annually. But is there an ideal time of year to get it?

Flu season usually occurs in the fall and winter, and flu activity usually peaks between December and February. Vaccinations can start as early as mid-September, but the optimal time to receive the flu vaccine is by the end of October. This time frame allows you to build immunity before the flu season typically peaks, which is important to fully protect yourself against the virus.

Where should you go to get your flu shot?

Flu shots are readily available at local urgent care clinics, making it easy to get your flu shot without an appointment. Urgent care clinics provide convenient and efficient services, allowing you to get your flu shot quickly and stay healthy throughout the flu season.

Learn more about urgent care services.

How does the flu shot work?

Seasonal flu vaccines are designed to protect against the three strains of the influenza virus that research indicates will be most likely to circulate in the coming flu season. When you receive a flu shot, your body develops antibodies over a period of about two weeks. These antibodies prepare your immune system to resist the flu viruses that are expected to be the most common.

How effective is the flu shot?

Effectiveness varies each year on how well the vaccine matches the circulating flu strains. Age and health status are other factors that influence the effectiveness for each individual. Though it is still possible to get sick from the flu, the vaccine reduces your likelihood of getting sick and also significantly reduces symptoms and recovery time if you do.

What potential side effects does the flu shot have?

After receiving the flu shot, some individuals may experience mild side effects, such as:

• Redness
• Soreness or swelling at the injection site
• Headache
• Fever
• Nausea
• Fatigue

These symptoms typically do not last long.

Where can you get tested for the flu?

If you develop flu-like symptoms, it’s important to get tested promptly to prevent spreading the virus and to start treatment, if necessary. Flu tests are available at most healthcare providers' offices and urgent care clinics. The testing process is simple: a healthcare professional swabs the inside of your nose, and results are usually available within 15 minutes. If you test positive, your provider may recommend over-the-counter medications, supportive care or antiviral drugs to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.

Learn more about diagnostic testing.

Get your flu shot at a discounted rate

CareNow® is offering flu shots for just $20 through December 31, 2024. With over 225 locations nationwide, many open after-hours and on weekends, so you can get vaccinated at a time that works best for you.

Common questions about the flu shot

Can you get the flu from the flu shot?

No, the flu vaccine cannot cause the flu. Some people may experience mild side effects, but these are not the flu.

Are flu shots live vaccines?

Most flu vaccines are inactivated, meaning they do not contain live viruses. Nasal spray flu vaccines contain a weakened form of a live virus. The CDC offers more detailed information about the different kinds of flu vaccines, and appropriate uses for each one. Remember, you can always talk to your provider about which is best for you.

Can you get sick after getting the flu shot?

While mild side effects are possible, the flu shot is designed to prevent illness, not cause it. Not all people experience side effects, and the side effects are the result of your immune system reacting to a stimulus.

Should healthy people get the flu shot?

Yes, even healthy individuals should get vaccinated to protect themselves and those around them, especially those who are more vulnerable. The flu shot is key to slowing and stopping the spread of the flu virus and minimizing symptoms during flu season.

Does the flu shot contain harmful ingredients?

The flu vaccine is thoroughly tested for safety. It contains only minimal additives to enhance effectiveness.

Is it necessary to get a flu shot every year?

Yes, annual vaccination is recommended to maintain protection, regardless of how severe the flu season is.

Find a CareNow location near you

Protect yourself and your community by getting vaccinated. Visit a CareNow® clinic today for your flu shot and take a proactive step toward staying healthy this flu season.