The Importance of Getting Your Flu Shot Early

From body aches, fever, and a cough to headaches, congestion, and fatigue, the flu is no fun. In some cases, severe symptoms lead to the need for hospital care — or worse.

Each year in the United States, the flu shot prevents millions of illnesses and medical visits, as well as thousands of deaths. Timing your influenza vaccine well can help you glean as many benefits as possible.

At our four locations in the metro Portland, Oregon, area, our dedicated team at Sellwood Medical Clinic makes getting your flu shot convenient and easy with both in-clinic and drive-thru options.

If you’re eager to make the most of your flu shot, here’s a look at how it works, the benefits to anticipate, and when to schedule it.

How the flu shot works

Flu vaccines inject a tiny amount of a deactivated or weakened version of particular influenza strains into your body. As a result, your immune system develops antibodies to fight flu infections.

Most flu shots in the US protect against four different flu viruses, based on research that points to which strains are the most prevalent in a given year. Some shots designed for adults age 65 and older prompt a stronger immune system reaction for greater protection.

Why you should get your flu shot (relatively) early

You don’t want to wait until the winter flu season strikes to get your vaccine. Once you’ve received your shot, your body takes about two weeks to develop antibodies for maximum protection. So aim to get your flu shot by late October. 

While you can get your flu shot even earlier, protection from a July or August vaccination may wane too much by late flu season. 

Kids ages six months to eight years might need two doses during flu season, spaced at least four weeks apart. When this is the case, the process may need to start before late October to ensure adequate protection.

Timing your flu shot well brings a range of benefits, including:

• Maximum protection when community virus levels are highest
• Shorter recovery time if you acquire influenza
• 40-60% reduced risk of needing general medical care for the flu
• Up to 59% reduced risk of severe illness that requires hospitalization
• Less chance of transmitting the virus to others

A well-timed flu shot can bring emotional perks too. Each year during an average flu season, influenza causes millions of Americans to fall ill and tens of thousands to die. 

Those numbers would be significantly lower if more people received the vaccination. (Currently, only about 49% of Americans get an annual flu shot.) By getting your flu shot early enough, you can rest easier knowing that severe and life-threatening symptoms are far less likely. 

To learn more about flu shots or how to best time your own, call our Sellwood Medical Clinic location nearest you or book your flu shot online here.