Everything to Know About Your Flu Shot This Fall

With cooler temperatures rolling in, so does the reminder that flu season is just around the corner. If you’ve been wondering whether it’s worth getting a flu shot this year, the answer from public health experts is clear: yes. Every year, millions are affected by the flu and with more than 1.3 million hospitalizations and up to 130,000 deaths in the last flu season alone, the risks are real.

Here’s your essential guide to getting vaccinated this fall.

Who Should Get the Flu Shot?

There are no changes to this year's eligibility: the flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older, unless advised otherwise by a healthcare provider.

Even as federal agencies update COVID-19 vaccine guidance this fall, the flu shot recommendations remain unchanged. The flu vaccine is a critical step in protecting not only yourself but also your community especially those who are more vulnerable.

Best Time to Get Vaccinated

Flu cases tend to start rising in October and typically peak between December and February, although seasonal patterns can vary by region. Health experts recommend getting vaccinated by the end of October, but getting it earlier even in September can provide protection ahead of the curve.

“If the flu starts circulating in your area and you’re not vaccinated yet, you may miss your window,” says infectious disease expert Aaron Glatt, MD. “Earlier is better, but it’s never too late flu activity often extends through April.”

Can You Get It Alongside Your COVID Shot?

Yes, and in fact, many doctors encourage it. Despite recent remarks from the FDA calling for more clinical trials on co-administration, major public health groups, including the CDC, maintain that getting both shots at the same time is safe and effective.

“Convenience matters,” says Joseph Bresee, MD, a respiratory virus prevention expert. “Combining both vaccines in one visit can improve uptake and prevent missed opportunities.”

In a CDC survey, over 60% of adults who delayed or skipped a COVID booster said they would have been more likely to get it if it were available at the same time as the flu shot.

Flu Shot Costs and Accessibility

• Insured? Your flu shot should be fully covered.

• Uninsured? Expect to pay between $20 to over $100 at retail pharmacies.

• Need help? Many community health centers and city-run clinics offer low-cost or free vaccinations especially in underserved neighborhoods.

Needle-Free Options: Nasal Spray Vaccines

For those who qualify, FluMist, a nasal spray flu vaccine, offers a needle-free alternative. It’s safe and effective for people aged 2 to 49 who are not pregnant or immunocompromised.

You can even have it delivered to your home, which is a helpful option for caregivers or people with mobility challenges. “This can be a game-changer for individuals who are homebound or have limited access to care,” says Bresee.

How Well Does the Flu Vaccine Work?

While we won’t know the exact effectiveness of this year’s vaccine until early 2026, historical data shows that when the vaccine is well-matched to circulating strains, it reduces the risk of serious illness by 40% to 60%.

It’s important to understand that getting the flu shot doesn’t guarantee you won’t catch the virus but it significantly reduces the chances of hospitalization, complications, and death.

This year, the FDA has also expanded eligibility for Flublok, a high-dose flu vaccine using recombinant technology, to include individuals as young as 9 years old. While it’s designed to enhance protection in older adults, all available flu vaccines for adults under 65 are considered comparably effective.

Side Effects and Safety

Flu vaccines are among the most well-tested and widely administered vaccines in history. Minor side effects such as soreness at the injection site or mild fatigue typically resolve within 24 hours. Serious reactions are extremely rare.

If you’ve previously had allergic reactions to vaccines, consult your doctor before getting immunized. Otherwise, flu vaccines remain safe for the overwhelming majority of people.

As Dr. Glatt puts it, “Flu vaccines save lives. Talk to your doctor, get informed, and get vaccinated.”

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