Flu shot: Optimal timing (infect, doctor, clinic, disease)

[otterhere]

Of course they start giving it in August, but now that it's early October, is it still too early to get this? You want to time it to be most effective when the flu is most prevalent -- usually in February. Anyone know?

[Luckyd609]

I usually wait until the middle or end of October to get mine.

[otterhere]

"By the end of October" is the recommendation (I've been Googling), but I think it matters whether that's early or late October.

[steiconi]

Mayo Clinic starts giving them to staff and patients in mid October.
My doctor there says they lose effectiveness over time and if you get them too early, they won't protect you all flu season.

[otterhere]

Yeah; I think it's too early. I'm rescheduling!

[greatblueheron]

Originally Posted by otterhere

Yeah; I think it's too early. I'm rescheduling!

Yes....late Oct even early Nov so it will last through flu season...this from my MD

[suzy_q2010]

Flu seems off to an early start this season, so it may be wise to go on and take the vaccine now.

https://www.ajc.com/news/local/cdc-w...hjWsjF0IgINWM/

You might check with your doctor and see whether there are cases reported in your own community already.

[RamenAddict]

I just got mine today. People in my office were already reporting that they had family members who were getting sick, so it seemed like a good idea not to wait.

[bluedevilz]

Originally Posted by otterhere

Yeah; I think it's too early. I'm rescheduling!

August and September are too early....any time in October is "optimal"

It takes about 2 weeks to develop antibodies from the vaccine so keep in mind you aren't really protected until 2 weeks after the shot.

Flu shot in October should easily last you through the flu season including the peak months in January-February

[turkeydance]

we get ours around Halloween, so it will be in full-effect during Thanksgiving/Christmas
when the children cross-pollinate the infectious diseases they picked up from parts unknown.