Flu season comes around every year, and so does one of the questions we often hear at the pharmacy: “Do I really need another flu shot?”
For most people, the answer is yes.
As flu season approaches here in Stillwater, Oklahoma, getting your annual flu vaccine is one of the best ways to reduce your chances of getting influenza and, importantly, lower your risk of becoming seriously ill if you do get sick.
At Tiger Drug, we want our patients to understand why the flu shot matters, not simply tell you that you need one.
Why Is Getting a Flu Shot So Important?
Influenza isn’t always just a few miserable days on the couch. The flu can lead to serious complications, particularly for young children, adults 65 and older, pregnant women, and people with certain chronic health conditions.
Because influenza viruses change over time, flu vaccines are reviewed each year and updated as needed to better match the viruses expected to circulate during the upcoming season.
Getting vaccinated can provide several important benefits:
- Lower your risk of getting the flu. The vaccine isn’t 100% effective, but it can reduce your chances of becoming sick with influenza.
- Reduce your risk of serious illness. Flu vaccination can reduce the risk of severe influenza and flu-related complications, including hospitalization.
- Help protect the people around you. Reducing your chances of getting influenza can also reduce opportunities for the virus to spread, including to people at greater risk of serious complications.
- Help avoid disruptions to work, school, and everyday life. Nobody wants to spend several days sick at home if they can help it.
Who Should Get a Flu Shot?
Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older, with rare exceptions.
Vaccination is especially important for people who may have a greater risk of serious flu complications, including:
- Adults 65 and older
- Young children
- Pregnant women
- People with asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or other chronic health conditions
- People with weakened immune systems
- Healthcare workers and caregivers
- People who live with or regularly interact with someone at higher risk of serious illness
If you’re 65 or older, there are flu vaccines preferentially recommended for your age group. Ask your pharmacist which option is appropriate for you.
Can the Flu Shot Give Me the Flu?
No. The flu shot cannot give you influenza.
Some people experience temporary side effects after vaccination, such as soreness where the shot was given, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, or a low-grade fever. These effects are generally mild and short-lived.
So if you’ve been avoiding the vaccine because you’re worried the shot itself will give you the flu, that’s one concern you can cross off your list.
What If I Never Get the Flu?
It’s easy to think:
“I never get the flu, so why do I need the vaccine?”
Even healthy people can get influenza. And while you may recover without complications, you can still potentially spread the virus to someone who has a higher risk of becoming seriously ill.
Your flu shot isn’t only about avoiding a few sick days. It’s also an opportunity to reduce your risk of severe illness and help protect the people around you.
Why Do I Need a Flu Shot Every Year?
Last year’s flu shot doesn’t replace this year’s.
Protection from flu vaccination can decrease over time, and the influenza viruses circulating in the community can change from one season to another.
That’s why annual vaccination is recommended.
Think of your flu shot as part of your yearly fall health routine, right alongside pulling out the jackets and wondering how Oklahoma can somehow feel like summer and fall in the same week.
When Should You Get Your Flu Shot?
For most adults, September and October are generally good times to get vaccinated.
But if October has already passed and you haven’t received your flu shot, don’t assume you’ve missed your chance. Vaccination can still be beneficial later in the season while influenza viruses are circulating.
It takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop an immune response, so it’s a good idea to get vaccinated before flu activity becomes widespread.
Timing can be different for certain people, including some children and pregnant women. If you’re unsure when you should receive your flu vaccine, ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
Can I Get Other Vaccines at the Same Visit?
In many cases, yes.
Depending on your age, health history, and vaccination needs, you may be able to receive other recommended vaccines during the same visit.
When you come in for your flu shot, ask our Tiger Drug pharmacy team if you’re due for any other recommended vaccines. We can help review your vaccination needs and answer questions about what’s appropriate for you.
Don’t Wait Until the Flu Finds You
Getting your annual flu shot only takes a few minutes, but it can help you be better prepared for the months ahead.
Stop by Tiger Drug in Stillwater and talk with our pharmacy team about your flu shot. We can answer your questions, help determine which flu vaccine is appropriate for you, and review whether you’re due for any other recommended vaccines.
A few minutes today can help you be better prepared for flu season tomorrow.
This article is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Vaccine recommendations can vary based on age, medical history, medications, allergies, and other factors. Talk with your pharmacist or healthcare provider about what’s appropriate for you.
