Why the Flu Vaccine Matters This Fall

September is the start of flu season in the United States, and while the peak often comes in winter, the best time to get vaccinated is now. The body takes about two weeks to build protection after receiving the flu shot, so getting vaccinated early helps ensure you’re ready before cases rise. Hospitals and clinics often see the highest influx of flu patients between December and February, but immunity from the vaccine lasts through the season—making September the ideal month to roll up your sleeve.

Protecting Yourself and Your Community

Influenza is more than just a bad cold. Each year, millions of people in the U.S. get sick with the flu, hundreds of thousands are hospitalized, and tens of thousands die from complications such as pneumonia. Vaccination lowers your risk of getting the flu and helps prevent severe illness if you do catch it. Even more importantly, it protects the people around you. By getting vaccinated, you help shield vulnerable groups like older adults, young children, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions who face the greatest risks.

Myths vs. Facts

One of the biggest barriers to flu vaccination is misinformation. Some people believe the vaccine can give you the flu—it can’t. The flu shot is made with inactivated virus or a single protein from the flu virus, so it cannot cause illness. Another common misconception is that healthy adults don’t need the vaccine. In reality, anyone can get the flu, and even a mild case can spread to someone who may not be able to fight it off as easily.

Added Importance During Respiratory Illness Season

The fall and winter months often bring not only flu but also other respiratory viruses such as RSV and COVID-19. Receiving your flu shot helps reduce the overall burden on hospitals and clinics, which is especially important in rural areas where healthcare resources may be more limited. Preventing flu hospitalizations frees up medical staff and resources for emergencies and other critical needs in the community.

Take Action Now

Getting your flu vaccine is a simple, safe, and effective way to protect yourself and those around you. Most pharmacies, clinics, and hospitals offer walk-in flu shots, making it easy to fit into your schedule. Don’t wait until flu season is in full swing—make your appointment this September and encourage friends and family to do the same. Together, we can keep our community healthier and stronger this fall.