The flu shot is an essential tool that can protect yourself and others from seasonal influenza. Knowing the best time to get vaccinated can maximize the effectiveness of the flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that anyone between the ages of 6 months and 65 years should get the flu shot annually, ideally before flu season peaks, which typically happens between late fall and winter. However, getting vaccinated later can still offer protection, especially if flu season lasts longer than expected.
If you’re in need of your annual flu shot, AFC Urgent Care Braintree can help. Our walk-in clinic makes it easy to get same-day care. We are open 7 days a week and never require you to have an appointment, simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you.
When is Flu Season?
Flu season typically occurs during the fall and winter months, with peak activity often between December and February. However, flu cases can start as early as October and extend into May, and the timing and intensity of flu season can vary each year. Health officials encourage vaccination in the early fall to ensure protection before flu activity reaches its highest levels.
When to Get the Flu Shot
The best time to get the flu shot is in early fall, typically between September and October. The flu shot works by helping your body build up immunity to the flu vaccine in advance of being exposed to the flu. Getting your flu shot early before flu cases begin to rise allows your body to build immunity before flu activity becomes widespread, which usually peaks between December and February. While early vaccination is ideal, getting the flu shot later, even into January or beyond, can still provide protection, as flu season can extend through May. It's important to get vaccinated annually since the flu virus strains can change each year, and immunity from the previous year's vaccine may diminish over time.
Side Effects of the Flu Shot
A common misconception regarding the flu shot is that it gives you the flu. The flu vaccine does expose your body to a small segment of the flu vaccine, however, the vaccine utilises a deactivated or dead flu virus. As a result, the flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. The flu shot is considered to be a safe and effective way to protect from severe cases of the flu.
There are some side effects associated with the flu shot. Sometimes your body may react to the vaccine as if it is a live pathogen which can cause mild illness seasons for the first 12 hours following your flu shot. Similarly, redness or feeling sore at the injection site are also common side effects following the flu shot. If you have concerns regarding your flu shot or symptoms following your flu shot, you should speak to your medical provider for further guidance.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Braintree for Flu Shots Available on a Walk-In Basis
At AFC Urgent Care Braintree, we aim to support your everyday health needs. We provide flu shots to patients between the ages of 6 months and 65 years of age. Our walk-in clinic makes it convenient for you to get your flu shot when it’s convenient for you. We maintain short wait times and are open 7 days a week. In many cases, flu shots are covered by your insurance. However, if you have concerns regarding your coverage, you should speak to your insurance provider directly. Our clinic works with many of the major medical insurance plans and provides competitive rates for flu shots. Walk into the clinic today!
