Flu vaccine timing: Last year’s flu season was one of the harshest in 15 years, one of a kind, and it led federal health officials to ponder a possible link to a rare but serious brain complication in children. The CDC estimates 19,000 flu deaths from 10 to 40 million influenza cases in a year. The deaths included 86 children, with at least nine experiencing neurological issues. Likewise, this year CDC has also issued a guideline on September 16, titled ‘Preventing Seasonal Flu,’ which highlights ways to reduce your risk from seasonal flu guidelines for different age groups.

Below are compiled details on the seasonal flu, which you need to know to protect you and your family.

What is flu season in the US

In the United States, flu season typically occurs in the fall and winter, with activity peaking most often between December and February. While flu viruses circulate year-round, it generally starts in October; the highest infection rates historically occur in February, followed by December, January, and March, and it ends in May. The severity and impact of each season, measured by infections, hospitalizations, and deaths, can vary, and the CDC tracks it.

Best time to get a flu shot

Many healthcare providers begin offering the flu shot at the beginning of September and suggest that you should receive the injection by the end of October, at the latest, so the antibodies have kicked in by the start of flu season.

Infectious disease specialist Steven Gordon, MD, while talking to Cleveland Clinic, advises getting it as soon as it becomes available in your area. He further detailed that ideally you should be getting a shot by the end of October.

Dr. Natalie Cameron, an instructor of medicine at Northwestern Medicine, also recommends a similar timeframe while talking to USA Today. “October is a great time to get your shot,” experts agree. After you receive the flu vaccine, your body will need around two weeks to produce antibodies and build up immunity against the virus.

Who should get the flu vaccine: Prevention steps and strategies for 2025–2026

The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older receive an annual flu vaccine, as it is the most important step in reducing the risk of flu and its potentially serious complications. Vaccination helps lower the burden of flu-related illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths and can reduce the severity of illness even if you get sick.

1. Young children

• Children 6 months and older should receive the flu vaccine every year.
  
  
  
• Children younger than 6 months are too young to be vaccinated, so caregivers should get vaccinated to protect them.

2. Pregnant individuals

• Pregnant women should get a flu shot each season, including the 2025–2026 season, to protect both themselves and their baby.

3. Adults with chronic health conditions

• People with chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease are at higher risk of serious flu complications and should be vaccinated annually.

4. Older adults

• Adults 65 years and older are at higher risk for severe flu and should receive the vaccine each year.

5. Health care workers and caregivers

• Anyone who lives with or cares for high-risk individuals should be vaccinated to prevent spreading the flu, especially those working in long-term care facilities.

6. General population

• Everyone 6 months and older should ideally get vaccinated by the end of October, but vaccination can continue as long as flu viruses are circulating in the community.
  
  
  
• For the 2025–2026 flu season, children, pregnant women, and adults can receive single-dose formulations of flu vaccine that are free of thimerosal as a preservative.

Flu vaccines cost

If a patient uses an in-network provider, they should be covered for free by Medicare, Medicaid, and the majority of private insurance plans. For those who qualify, local health departments can also offer flu shots for free or at a reduced cost.

Can you get a COVID-19 vaccine at the same time?

According to Dr. Philip Huang, director of Dallas Health and Human Services, who was cited by the AP. "That's a good way to get them taken care of," he said, adding that it's safe to give them together.

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions about vaccines, your health, or the appropriate timing for immunizations.