Here’s what to know about the flu season

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Should I get a flu shot?

Yes, most people should. The CDC made a universal recommendation following the 2010-11 flu season that everyone (with rare exceptions) should get a flu vaccine. There are different flu vaccines available, depending on how old you are and other factors.

How old do you need to be to get a flu vaccine?

Babies as young as 6 months (and everyone older than that) can get a flu vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics say it’s safe to get the flu vaccine at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine, which now includes the new COVID-19 booster.

Which flu vaccine should I get?

Which flu vaccine you receive will most likely depend on your age. Specific, higher dose vaccines are recommended for adults age 65 and up, who may need an extra immunity bump. All the flu vaccines available this year are quadrivalent, meaning they’re designed to protect against four different flu viruses.

There are a few different types of flu vaccines, including standard-dose flu shots for adults under age 65, nasal vaccines that contain live but weakened versions of the flu virus for people 2 through 49 years old and stronger formulas intended for older adults.

The CDC doesn’t have a specific recommendation for most people under age 65.

When should I get the flu vaccine?

The CDC recommends most people get it in September or October, but receiving one after October will likely still be effective at protecting you ahead of the peak of flu season, which typically starts to peak around December and goes to March.

Where can I get a flu vaccine? How much does the flu vaccine cost?

The flu vaccine campaign is different from the campaign for COVID-19 vaccines, which are free to everyone because they were paid for by the federal government and strategically available through a vaccine-finder website.

Who’s at high risk of flu complications?

The people who are at higher risk of complications from influenza include older adults age 65 and up, people who are pregnant, disabled people and those with certain medical conditions. Children under age 5 are also at higher risk of flu complications.

There might be more specific recommendations for people at higher risk, and if you think that’s you, the CDC has some special guidance.