Flu season in the United States usually peaks between December and February, and it can drag on into May. The CDC’s advice for timing is simple: get your flu vaccine in September or October, ideally by the end of October. Here’s what to know this year.
Who should get one
The CDC recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older, with rare exceptions. It matters most for people at higher risk of complications, including older adults and people with chronic health conditions. Some children between 6 months and 8 years need two doses, at least four weeks apart, depending on their vaccine history.
Why the end of October
It takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to build protective antibodies. Getting the shot before flu starts spreading widely gives that protection time to kick in. That said, the CDC says it’s never too late during flu season, so if you miss October, get it later.
What’s new for 2026–27
- Three strains. All of this season’s vaccines are trivalent, covering two influenza A viruses (H1N1 and H3N2) and one influenza B virus.
- An mRNA option for adults 50 and up. In August the FDA approved Moderna’s mFLUSIVA, the first mRNA-based flu vaccine. In a trial of more than 20,000 people aged 50 to 64, it prevented somewhat more cases than a standard shot. It hasn’t been compared with the stronger vaccines usually recommended for people 65 and older, and side effects such as a sore arm or tiredness were more common. Check with your insurer about coverage.
- Nasal spray at home. FluMist is FDA-approved for self-administration by adults 18 to 49, or for a caregiver to give to children 2 to 17.
Which shot for whom
- 65 and older: the CDC prefers a high-dose, recombinant or adjuvanted vaccine.
- Pregnant: get a shot, not the nasal spray. The CDC says vaccination lowers the risk of flu and serious complications during pregnancy.
- Everyone else: any age-appropriate vaccine is fine. Ask your pharmacist or doctor if you’re unsure.
Common questions
Can the shot give me the flu? No. Flu shots contain inactivated virus or viral proteins, so they can’t cause an infection. Mild side effects such as a sore arm, headache, low fever or muscle aches can happen and usually pass quickly.
Does it help if I still get sick? According to the CDC, studies show vaccinated people who catch the flu are less likely to land in intensive care or die than unvaccinated people.
Can I get other vaccines at the same visit? Johns Hopkins Medicine notes that most people can safely get their flu and COVID-19 vaccines together, plus an RSV vaccine if eligible.
Flu shots are widely available at doctors’ offices, pharmacies, health departments and urgent care clinics.
This article is for general information, not medical advice.
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