When is the right time to get the flu shot for adults?

It is generally best to get an adult flu shot before the start of the flu season each year. It is usually recommended to get vaccinated between September and November to ensure adequate immune protection before the peak flu season (winter and spring). Flu vaccination can effectively reduce the risk of flu infection or alleviate flu symptoms.

1) Choice of vaccination time

The immune protection of the flu vaccine usually starts to take effect about 2 weeks after vaccination and lasts for several months. However, immunity tends to gradually weaken, so it is recommended to complete the vaccination before the peak flu season arrives. For the northern hemisphere, the peak flu season generally occurs from December to February of the following year, so the most appropriate time to get vaccinated is from September to November, when the vaccine can reach its best level during the peak season.

2) Why do we need to vaccinate every year?

The flu virus strains may mutate each year, so the World Health Organization recommends the vaccine ingredients for that year based on the trend of the flu virus. In this context, even if you received the flu vaccine last year, your immunity will not be able to effectively deal with this year's virus strains, so you need to be re-vaccinated every year. The protective power of the vaccine will decay over time, and annual vaccination can replenish immunity in a timely manner.

3) Who should be given priority for vaccination?

Some groups of people are more susceptible to influenza infection or develop severe symptoms after infection. For example: pregnant women, people over 60 years old, patients with chronic diseases (such as diabetes, chronic cardiopulmonary diseases, etc.) and medical staff. These groups of people need to be vaccinated before the flu season arrives. Ordinary adults, especially those who often come into contact with people at work (such as teachers, sales staff, etc.) are also recommended to be vaccinated to reduce the risk of transmission.

4) Some notes

Before vaccination, if you have a history of egg allergy, have had a sensitive reaction to the ingredients of the flu vaccine, or currently have fever symptoms, you should consult a doctor to see if you are suitable for vaccination. After vaccination, you may experience slight local redness, swelling, soreness, etc. These are normal and will usually disappear on their own. If you experience severe discomfort, you should seek medical attention immediately.

The key to preventing influenza is to take early protection, and influenza vaccination is the simplest and most effective way. It is recommended to choose the appropriate vaccination time according to physical condition and doctor's advice, and at the same time, to cooperate with healthy living habits, such as washing hands frequently, wearing masks, and avoiding crowded places, so as to effectively reduce the risk of infection.