This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

With flu season upon us, University of Texas at Arlington public health professor Denise Hernandez encourages everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated. "Getting a flu shot is one of the easiest and most effective steps you can take to protect yourself, your family and your community," Hernandez said. "The best time to get vaccinated is now."

Flu season runs October through May, with activity most often peaking between December and February, although it can start as early as the fall. Health officials recommend getting an annual flu shot by the end of October, as it takes about two weeks to build full immunity.

During the 2024–25 influenza season, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that flu vaccination prevented 10 million flu illnesses, 5 million medical visits, 180,000 hospitalizations and 12,000 deaths.

Hernandez (Ph.D., public and urban administration) discusses vaccine safety and effectiveness, why getting vaccinated matters and other key issues surrounding flu vaccination.

Every year, the flu causes significant illness, hospitalizations, missed work and school days, and in some cases death—especially in certain populations that may be more vulnerable to severe illness such as young children, older adults, pregnant individuals and people with chronic health conditions. The flu vaccine helps reduce your risk of getting sick and, if you do become infected, it lowers the likelihood of severe complications.

Even if you are not part of one of the vulnerable groups, you may have a family member or people close to you who are more susceptible to severe illness.

Source link