CDC: Don’t wait to get your flu shot

Even though winter is still months away, federal health officials are urging people to get flu shots as soon as possible.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says everyone ages six months and older should get a flu vaccine every year. That includes people at high risk for developing flu-related complications – children younger than 5, adults 65 and older and pregnant women.

CDC officials are not recommending the nasal spray flu vaccine for the 2016-2017 season because recent research has called into question its effectiveness. Instead, they encourage everyone to get the flu shot.

Two new vaccines are available this year: one contains a substance known as “adjuvant,” which boosts the vaccine’s effectiveness; the other protects against four strains of flu instead of three.

Health officials say you should opt for whatever is available, rather than wait for a specific vaccine.

The CDC recommends vaccinations by the end of October, if possible. It takes about two weeks after getting the flu shot for antibodies to develop and protect against the flu.

Click here to read the CDC’s key facts about the seasonal flu vaccine.

Many health plans offer flu shots as a preventative service. Check your plan for more information, because your flu vaccination may be free.

Have you received your flu shot yet? Share you story with Voices for Affordable Health. https://voicesforaffordablehealth.com/share-your-voice/.