There's still time to get a Flu shot!

January 10, 2019

Flu season, which runs from October to May, is still in full swing so it is not too late to get vaccinated as cases have been confirmed in the past from December to as late as early March.

Getting vaccinated before the flu season is still best as it gives the body a chance to build up immunity, however getting the vaccine later, even January, can still be helpful.

Flu is widespread in Connecticut with four related deaths and 500 cases currently reported. Recently, flu shots have been made mandatory for pre-k students in the state.

Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine?

The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone who is at greater risk of developing health problems from the flu to get vaccinated.

According to Kids Health, they include:

  • Kids 6 months through 4 years old (babies younger than 6 months are also considered high risk, but they cannot receive the flu vaccine)
  • Anyone 65 years and older
  • All women who are pregnant, are considering pregnancy, have recently given birth, or are breastfeeding during flu season
  • Anyone whose immune system is weakened from medications or illnesses (like HIV infection)
  • Residents of long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes
  • Anyone (adults, teens, and kids) with a chronic medical condition, such as asthma
  • Kids or teens who take aspirin regularly and are at risk for developing Reye syndrome if they get the flu
  • Caregivers or household contacts of anyone in a high-risk group (like children younger than 5 years old, especially those younger than 6 months, and those with high-risk conditions)
  • Native Americans and Alaskan Natives

Please consider getting the vaccine, especially if you or a loved one falls within any of the above categories - check with your pharmacy or doctor’s office for availability.