The 2025 flu season is approaching, and health experts emphasize the importance of getting vaccinated. While federal agencies are expected to update some vaccine guidelines this fall, the recommendation for annual flu shots remains consistent: everyone six months and older should receive one. Last flu season underscored the severity of influenza, with a staggering 1.3 million hospitalizations and up to 130,000 deaths in the United States. This highlights the life-saving potential of the flu vaccine, as confirmed by Dr. Aaron Glatt, chair of the department of medicine and chief of infectious diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/VWH-GettyImages-2211323900-ea4a6e894b53419cb54524d907f00f43.jpg)
This year, there are no changes to eligibility for the flu vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends it for all individuals aged six months and older, with rare exceptions. Importantly, any updates to COVID-19 vaccine recommendations do not affect flu vaccine guidelines. The CDC's advisory panel will discuss routine vaccines for COVID and other diseases in late September, but the flu vaccine is not on their agenda for this meeting.
Flu vaccines are readily available nationwide at pharmacies, clinics, and doctors' offices. While flu cases typically surge in October, peaking in February, the timing can vary by year and region. Dr. Glatt advises getting your flu shot early for optimal protection. While getting vaccinated later isn't inherently dangerous, securing immunity before flu activity begins in your area is ideal. Even if you miss the early window, getting the vaccine later is still beneficial, as flu circulates until April.
Following the introduction of COVID-19 vaccines in 2021, the CDC and medical groups initially stated that simultaneous COVID and flu vaccinations were safe and effective. However, recent statements by the FDA's top vaccine official require further clarification on this matter. While the FDA seeks additional data, Dr. Joseph Bresee, director of respiratory virus prevention and preparedness at The Task Force for Global Health, emphasizes the safety and convenience of co-administering these vaccines. He also points out that simultaneous vaccination improves overall vaccination rates.
Flu vaccines are typically covered by health insurance plans. Those without insurance can find affordable options, with costs ranging from approximately $20 to over $100 at pharmacies. Many cities offer low-cost or free vaccines at public health clinics. For added convenience, the FluMist nasal spray vaccine can now be ordered for home delivery. It is a safe and effective option for people aged 2-49 who aren't pregnant or immunocompromised. This option improves access for those with mobility limitations.
The effectiveness of the annual flu vaccine is usually determined around February. This is because the vaccine's formula changes yearly based on anticipated circulating viral strains. When the vaccine strains are well-matched, effectiveness ranges between 40% and 60% in preventing severe illness and death. While the vaccine doesn't guarantee complete prevention, it significantly reduces the severity of illness, hospitalizations, and fatalities. The FDA recently expanded eligibility for the Flublok vaccine to individuals as young as 9 years old. This vaccine uses different technology and has shown greater effectiveness in older adults. However, the CDC confirms that all available options for those under 65 are similarly effective.
Flu vaccines are extremely safe, with the most common side effects being minor soreness or redness at the injection site for about 24 hours. Those with severe allergic reactions to previous vaccines should consult their physician. Otherwise, it's a safe and essential preventative measure. Beyond vaccination, regular handwashing, cough etiquette, staying home when sick, and mask usage when contagious or concerned about exposure are crucial preventative measures. If you develop the flu, your doctor can prescribe Tamiflu to help manage symptoms.
---
Originally published at: https://www.verywellhealth.com/flu-shots-2025-11807542
