When should we get vaccinated for the yearly influenza (flu) vaccine?

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Last updated: September 4, 2025 • View editorial policy

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Optimal Timing for Yearly Flu Vaccination

The optimal time to get a flu shot is during October and November, with high-risk individuals prioritized for vaccination in October and the general population in November. 1

Vaccination Timing Algorithm

High-Priority Groups (October Vaccination)

  • Persons aged >50 years
  • Individuals with high-risk medical conditions
  • Children aged 6-23 months
  • Healthcare workers
  • Household contacts of high-risk individuals (including caregivers of children 0-23 months)
  • Children <9 years receiving vaccine for the first time 2, 1

General Population (November Vaccination)

  • Healthy adults under 50 years
  • Anyone else wishing to reduce their risk of influenza 2, 1

Special Timing Considerations

For Children Requiring Two Doses

Children aged <9 years who are receiving the vaccine for the first time need two doses administered at least 4 weeks apart:

  • First dose should be given in October (or earlier if possible)
  • Second dose ideally before December 2, 1

For Pregnant Women

  • First and second trimester: Avoid July/August vaccination; October is optimal
  • Third trimester: Can consider vaccination as early as July/August to protect newborns during their first months 2, 3

For Older Adults in Long-Term Care Facilities

  • Vaccination before October should generally be avoided due to potential waning of immunity 2

Vaccination After November

Vaccination should continue to be offered throughout the entire influenza season (December through March and beyond) as long as influenza viruses are circulating and vaccine supplies are available. 2, 1

Key points:

  • Influenza activity typically peaks between late December and early March in the US
  • Adults develop peak antibody protection against influenza approximately 2 weeks after vaccination
  • Late vaccination is still beneficial as it can provide protection during the remaining flu season 2, 4

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

  1. Waiting too long: Don't delay vaccination until December or later, as this risks exposure during early seasonal outbreaks

  2. Vaccinating too early: Vaccination before September (especially for older adults) may result in waning immunity before peak flu season

  3. Incomplete vaccination series: Failing to complete the two-dose series for children <9 years receiving the vaccine for the first time reduces vaccine effectiveness

  4. Assuming "it's too late": A common misconception is that vaccination after December is not worthwhile, but vaccination is beneficial throughout the entire flu season 1

  5. Missing vaccination opportunities: Healthcare providers should offer the vaccine during routine visits for high-risk patients starting in September to avoid missed opportunities 2

By following these timing recommendations, individuals can maximize their protection against influenza while ensuring that immunity persists throughout the peak of the influenza season.

References

1
Guideline

Influenza Vaccination Timing

Praxis Medical Insights: Practical Summaries of Clinical Guidelines, 2025

2
Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

4
Research

Influenza and Influenza Vaccine: A Review.

Journal of midwifery & women's health, 2021

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Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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