October 15, 2019 —While some might think there is a “best time” to get a flu shot, waiting for the perfect moment may cause you to put it off and miss out on the vaccine’s benefits. The flu season generally begins around early October and usually extends from December to March. In the preceding two flu seasons, flu activity has peaked around mid- to late-February. The body needs two weeks after the shot to develop a protective response.
Some studies also show the benefit of a flu shot begins to decline after four to six months, especially among older adults. While getting a flu shot in October may provide the most benefit, timing is not as important as actually getting one—the flu vaccine prevents 50% to 60% of influenza infections in a typical season and the vaccines are often updated each season to keep up with changing viruses. It’s true that immunity wanes over a year, so annual vaccination is needed to ensure the best possible protection against influenza.
With Faith Woodward, Director of Admissions and Marketing at Barclay Friends—where older adults will find a spirit of community that embraces the realities of aging while promoting the joys of living. To learn more, please call 610-696-5211 or visit our website, http://bf.kendal.org/.