Why Getting Your Flu Vaccine This Season Is Essential and Who Should Get It

As flu activity typically starts rising in November, now is the ideal time to get vaccinated against the flu. Pediatricians are urging everyone to consider getting the flu shot, especially after last winter's concerning rise in flu-related child deaths—the highest in 15 years. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the annual flu vaccine for nearly all individuals aged 6 months and older, emphasizing its importance for vulnerable groups such as seniors, pregnant women, young children, and those with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.

Getting vaccinated not only reduces your risk of severe illness but also decreases the likelihood of hospitalization. During last season's tough flu season, the CDC reported 280 child deaths, most of whom had not been fully vaccinated. Moreover, some children experienced rare but serious complications like brain inflammation, which can cause seizures or even death.

October is considered the best month to get vaccinated because it provides protection before flu cases peak. Dr. Laura Riley from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists encourages people to get vaccinated today if they haven't already, highlighting that vaccination is safe for both mothers and their babies. Pregnant women who get vaccinated also pass protection to their newborns, who are at high risk of severe flu but too young to be vaccinated themselves.

For those hesitant about the traditional injection, the nasal spray vaccine FluMist offers an alternative for healthy individuals aged 2 to 49. A new at-home vaccination option with FluMist is now available for eligible adults in select states, allowing for self-administration following delivery by mail.

The cost of flu vaccines is generally covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans when administered through approved providers. Local health departments may also offer free or low-cost vaccines. The CDC confirms that it's safe to receive the flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine simultaneously, making it convenient to protect yourself against both infections.

Protect yourself and your loved ones this season by getting vaccinated early. For more information, visit https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-flu-vaccination.html.