It’s common knowledge that flu season is during the colder winter months, but just because winter is almost over doesn’t mean flu season is. There are a lot of misconceptions about the flu and flu season as a whole, but we want to set the record straight! Knowing the real facts about the flu in late winter will help keep you happy and healthy all year long. 

Can I Still Get the Flu?

Yes, you can still get the flu in late winter! Many people think peak flu season is in early winter, but the peak flu season actually changes each year. Just because one peak has already happened, doesn’t mean it can’t peak again either. In fact, recent years have seen a peak in flu cases as late as the beginning of spring! The time of year has nothing to do with the spread of the flu and you should never feel like your risk of contracting the flu is gone. 

Preventative Options

There are steps you can take to protect yourself from the flu. The flu shot is over 80% effective at preventing the flu. You might think that if you didn’t get the flu shot in October or November that there’s no point now, but that couldn’t be further from the truth! Most urgent care centers, walk-in clinics, primary care physicians, and even some pharmacies, still have the flu vaccine on hand and ready to give to patients. Flu shots are quick and have no side effects other than injection site redness, so there’s no reason not to protect yourself! 

What If I Already Had a Flu Shot?

If you had a flu shot already, you probably think you’re protected through late winter, but that isn’t always the case. Flu shots are typically offered starting as early as August. While that’s helpful to prevent early peaks of the flu, your vaccine from the fall might no longer be effective enough to keep you protected. Ask a medical provider if you’re in need of a second flu shot based on when you got your first one. 

Rather you need your first flu shot, your second flu shot, or flu treatment, urgent care can help! Urgent care centers are the best place to receive same-day care for your flu symptoms or get a flu shot before you come in contact with the flu. Each day you remain unvaccinated in another day you might catch the flu, so what’re you waiting for?!