Is it ever too early or too late to get a flu vaccine?
Flu vaccination provides protection against the influenza strains contained in the seasonal vaccine for the entire season. Vaccination can begin as soon as vaccine becomes available. Over the course of the flu season, many different influenza viruses can circulate at different times and in different places. As long as flu viruses are still spreading in the community, vaccination can provide protective benefit. In addition, there are other people who may benefit from seasonal flu vaccination as late as April or May, even if influenza viruses are no longer circulating in the United States. This includes:
  • Persons likely to be traveling to the Southern Hemisphere, where influenza may be circulating
  • Children younger than 9 being vaccinated for the first time who still have not received their second recommended dose of vaccine. Studies have shown that 2 doses are needed in children younger than 9 the first year they are vaccinated in order to maximize the protective benefit from vaccination.

Show All Answers

1. How do I know that I have the flu?
2. How does the flu spread?
3. How long is a person with flu virus contagious?
4. Can the flu be treated?
5. Why should people get vaccinated against the flu?
6. When should I get a flu vaccine?
7. How do flu vaccines work?
8. Is the “stomach flu” really the flu?
9. How many people get the flu each year?
10. Do other respiratory viruses circulate during the flu season?
11. How soon will I get sick if I’m exposed to the flu?
12. How do scientists determine which strains to protect against in a flu vaccine?
13. Can a flu vaccine give you the flu?
14. Why do I feel sick after getting a flu shot?
15. Why did I still get sick even after I got a flu shot?
16. Do I need to get a flu vaccine every year, or will the immunity carry over from last year’s vaccine?
17. Is it ever too early or too late to get a flu vaccine?
18. How can I learn more about the progress of the flu season?