When does flu season start? When does it end? These are common questions that circulate every year. As we approach another flu season, CDC answers these common questions:
- Who should receive a flu vaccine? CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu vaccine every season. Vaccination is especially important for people who are at higher risk of developing serious flu complications, such as adults with certain chronic health conditions, such as asthma, heart disease and diabetes. During recent flu seasons, 9 out of 10 people hospitalized with flu had at least one underlying health condition – that’s why getting an annual flu vaccine is especially important for people with certain chronic health conditions.
- When is flu season in the U.S.? While seasonal flu viruses are detected year-round in the United States, flu illness is most common during the fall and winter. The exact timing and duration of flu seasons vary, but flu activity often begins to increase in October and significant activity can last as late as May of the following year.
- How can I protect myself from flu and its complications? The best way to reduce the risk of flu and its potentially serious complications is by getting vaccinated each year. Getting an annual flu vaccine is very important to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community against flu.
- When should I receive a flu vaccine? September and October are generally good times to get vaccinated. While ideally it’s recommended to get vaccinated by the end of October, it’s important to know that vaccination after October can still provide protection during the peak of flu season.
CDC asks that you share this important information with your readers to help them prepare for this coming flu season. For additional information, please visit the CDC Flu information page.