With flu season, you never know what you’re going to get. The 2025-2026 season has been especially brutal, making more than 19 million Americans ill and causing more than 10,000 deaths, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC).

Fortunately, there’s a way to help protect yourself and your family from getting sick: getting your flu shot. The American Academy of Family Physicians says everyone should be immunized against influenza, starting at 6 months old.   In most areas, appointments are easy to find. Just search online for flu vaccine availability at a local pharmacy, hospital or clinic, or make an appointment with your primary care doctor.

Unsure of whether or not you want to get your flu vaccine? Read on for some common questions and answers about influenza immunization, and why now is a great time to protect yourself and others as we skate into the holiday season.

What is the flu?

The flu is a contagious respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses, which can infect the nose, throat and sometimes the lungs. The flu can be mild or severe, and as mentioned, could even cause death. According to the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, flu often strikes suddenly, and may include the following symptoms:

  • Fever and/or chills
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny/ stuffy nose
  • Muscle/body aches
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)

When is flu season?

Flu season usually occurs in fall and winter. In North America, it can start as early as October and run through May, according to the Mayo Clinic.If you haven’t gotten vaccinated yet, now is a good time so that you’re better protected during holiday gatherings, indoor meetups and into the new year.

What is the flu vaccine?

Flu vaccines are designed to protect against not one, but four different influenza viruses that are circulating during the current flu season. They all work by triggering the immune system to produce antibodies that will help protect you from the virus. There are a number of different types of flu vaccines—including vaccines aimed at people 65 and up, and vaccines for people with egg allergies—so it’s best to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what flu vaccine is right for you.

Why should I get vaccinated?

When you get vaccinated, you’re reducing your risk of getting ill, and, if you do get ill, you’re less likely to experience severe sickness from the flu.

Can pregnant people get vaccinated?

Yes. According to the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists, the flu shot is safe for pregnant people during any trimester. If you’re pregnant, be sure and talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the best option for you.

Will the flu vaccine give me the flu?

No, the flu vaccine cannot give you the flu, says the Mayo Clinic. However, you could experience some flu-like symptoms, such as muscle aches and fever, as your immune system responds to the vaccine.

When should I get my next flu vaccine?

The flu vaccine is an annual shot. The vaccine is updated each year to best target the flu strains that are in circulation that year. So if you’ve already gotten your flu vaccine for the current flu season, you’ll want to get the shot at the start of the next flu season.

Can I get a flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time?

Yes, if you are eligible and due for a COVID vaccine, that’s fine; you can also space them out if you prefer. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor.

What are other steps I can take to avoid getting the flu?

In addition to getting vaccinated, you can take easy, everyday steps to keep yourself healthy: wash your hands frequently; avoid close contact with people who are sick; avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth; consider wearing a mask when you’re going to be indoors with others; and take care of yourself throughout the year by eating a healthy, balanced diet, exercising, managing stress and getting enough sleep so that your immune system is strong.

If I wear a mask and avoid crowds, do I still need to get my flu vaccine?

Yes. While masking and crowd avoidance can lower your risk, it’s still possible to get sick. The Mayo Clinic recommends vaccinations for flu, in addition to taking precautions. 

Nobody wants to get sick. Thanks to the ongoing research and dedication of scientists and healthcare professionals, it’s possible to protect yourself from certain illnesses and conditions through vaccination. To stay safe this flu season, make an appointment for your flu shot today.