Staying Healthy This Flu Season: Who Should Get Vaccinated and When
As the weather cools and we all start spending more time indoors, flu season begins to pick up here in the Pioneer Valley. The good news is that a yearly flu vaccine remains one of the simplest ways to protect yourself and the people around you. At Cendity Health, we want to help you feel prepared, not worried, so here is a friendly overview of who should get vaccinated and when.
Who should get a flu shot?
Most people benefit from an annual flu vaccine. Vaccination is generally recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older, with a few exceptions your provider can help you sort out. Some groups are especially encouraged to get vaccinated each year because they face a higher chance of complications from the flu:
- Adults 65 and older
- Young children
- People who are pregnant
- Anyone with a chronic condition such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease
- Caregivers and household members of people at higher risk
If you have questions about your own situation, including any past reactions to vaccines, our team is happy to talk it through with you.
When is the best time to get vaccinated?
Early fall is usually an ideal time. Getting your shot in September or October gives your body a few weeks to build protection before flu activity typically peaks in the winter months. That said, if the calendar gets away from you, it is not too late. Flu can circulate into the spring, so a later vaccine is still worthwhile and better than skipping it altogether.
A few simple habits that help, too
Vaccination works best alongside everyday habits. Washing your hands regularly, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when you feel unwell all help keep the flu from spreading through your family, workplace, and community.
How to get your flu shot at Cendity Health
Our providers make it easy to stay up to date. You can get your flu vaccine at a regular visit or schedule a quick appointment just for the shot. To book, call us at (413) 586-2740 or use the patient portal at portal.cendity.com. You can also learn more about our practice at cendity.com.
We are located at 214 Bridge Street, Suite 200, Northampton, MA 01060, and we serve Northampton, Amherst, Easthampton, Holyoke, Hadley, South Hadley, Belchertown, and the surrounding communities. Our office hours are Monday through Thursday from 8:00am to 5:00pm and Friday from 8:00am to 4:00pm; we are closed Saturday and Sunday.
A quick reminder
This post shares general information only and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. Your care is always individual, so please talk with your own provider about what is right for you. Our physicians and clinicians, including Dr. Susan M. Reyes, Dr. Daniel C. Okonkwo, Dr. Rebecca S. Feldman, Karen A. Whitfield, FNP-BC, and Marcus T. Bell, PA-C, are here to help. If you ever have a medical emergency, call 911.