“When should I get my flu shot?”

As we approach the end of summer and into the fall season, the question arises “when do I get my flu shot?”. Flu prevention and getting the flu shot are more important than ever.


If you have ever gotten the flu, or know someone who has, you know how truly awful it can be. Some people can be out of work for weeks feeling terrible.


Not only does the flu shot help prevent you from getting the flu, but it protects those around you who may not be able to fight off the flu and helps conserve health resources in the community. Throughout this pandemic, the importance of vaccines and thinking of others has become more evident than ever.


Getting your flu shot can save you, and others, from a horrible few weeks of illness or even hospitalization.


Although cases of COVID-19 were starting to decrease, the emergence of the Delta variant has begun another spike of cases. With the increased spread of COVID cases, this fall and winter season may be another where the risk of COVID-19 and influenza are spreading simultaneously.


So, when should you get your flu shot, and does COVID-19 affect your flu shot?


The CDC advises that if you have been diagnosed with COVID-19 recently to wait until you have recovered before getting a flu shot. Having COVID-19 does not protect against influenza, therefore you will still need a flu shot. The CDC also notes getting a flu shot too far in advance, such as in July or August, is too early. Especially for older people. Ideally, getting your flu shot in September and October is the ideal way to go.


Rochester Clinical Research is now enrolling volunteers in a flu vaccine study. The timeline of this study is set to fall perfectly within the October sweet spot of receiving a flu vaccine. This study is unique as we are researching a flu vaccine that uses mRNA technology similar to that seen in the current COVID-19 vaccines. Click here to learn more!

Contact RCR - Buffalo

500 Helendale Road, Suite 200 Rochester, NY 14609
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