Your annual flu protection guide: why this year's vaccine matters

Fall is here, and that means flu season is headed our way. Getting your yearly flu vaccine is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your health and the health of those around you.

Though it can vary, in the Pacific Northwest, flu activity generally ticks up in November and peaks between December and February.

Getting vaccinated early in the season gives your body time to build protection before the flu virus is spreading widely in our communities.

Why the flu vaccine matters every year

“Influenza isn't just a bad cold,” says Jason Cronin, MD, medical director of infectious disease at PeaceHealth in Oregon. “It's a serious illness that sends hundreds of thousands of Americans to the hospital each year.” 

Staying current with the flu vaccine significantly lowers your risk of getting sick. If you do get the flu, vaccination can make your illness milder and shorter.

The vaccine is updated annually to match the viruses most likely to spread. That's why you need a new flu shot every year. 

Community protection matters, too. When more of our friends and neighbors get vaccinated, it helps protect those who can't get a flu shot, including babies under 6 months old and people with certain medical conditions.

Who should get a flu vaccine

The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older, with rare exceptions. Here’s who should plan on a flu shot:

• Children and teens. This is especially important for school-age kids, who can be "super-spreaders" bringing the virus home from classrooms, afterschool activities and daycare.
• Adults of all ages, including healthy young adults who might think they don't need it.
• People who are pregnant. Flu protection passes from parent to baby and lasts for several months after birth.
• Adults 65 and older. Older adults have a higher risk of flu complications. If you're caring for older relatives, getting vaccinated protects both you and them.
• People with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease or weakened immune systems.

The best timing for your flu shot

Get vaccinated by the end of October for the best protection. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop immunity.

Earlier is better. But even if flu is already spreading in your community, the vaccine can still protect you from getting sick later in the season.

Don't wait if you're planning to travel for the holidays. Flu viruses spread easily in crowded places like airports and family gatherings.

Types of flu vaccines 

Several flu vaccine options are available this year:

• Standard flu shots are suitable for most people and provide good protection against four different flu strains.
• High-dose vaccines are specially designed for adults 65 and older, providing a stronger immune response.
• Nasal spray vaccine is an option for healthy people ages 2 to 49 who aren't pregnant.

Your doctor or care team can help you choose the best option based on your age, risk level and preferences.

What to expect from your flu shot

Getting vaccinated takes just a few minutes. You might feel a brief pinch when you get the shot. Common side effects are generally mild and may include:

• Soreness or redness where you got the shot
• Low-grade fever
• Body aches

These are normal signs that your body is building protection. They usually go away in a day or two.

Serious side effects are extremely rare. The benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks for almost everyone.

Making vaccination convenient

Most health insurance plans cover flu shots with no out-of-pocket cost. If you don't have insurance, many community programs offer free or low-cost flu shots.

You and your family can generally get a flu shot at:

• Your doctor's office or clinic
• Retail pharmacies
• Community health centers
• Workplace vaccine clinics
• School-based clinics for children

Many locations don't require an appointment. You can often walk in when it's convenient for you.

Flu prevention beyond vaccination

While the flu vaccine is your best protection, other healthy habits can help too:

• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds several times a day.
• Avoid touching your face, especially your nose, mouth and eyes.
• Stay home when sick to avoid spreading illness to others.
• Gather items to have on hand to help you or someone in your household feel better if you do get sick. Here’s a list to create your comfort kit.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow, not your hands.
• Regularly clean surfaces that you or others touch a lot (e.g. doorknobs, handrails, remotes, phones).
• Get enough sleep and eat well to keep your immune system strong.

Protecting our community

“Living in the Pacific Northwest means we spend more time indoors together during fall and winter. This close contact makes it easier for flu viruses to spread from person to person,” says Dr. Cronin.

Getting vaccinated isn't just about protecting yourself — it's about protecting our entire community, especially those who are most vulnerable to serious illness.

Don't wait for flu activity to increase where you live. The best time to get your flu shot is early in the season, before you're exposed to flu viruses.