It is possible to catch the flu at any time of year, but this airborne disease is particularly prevalent during fall and winter when windows are shut and more people stay indoors. An annual flu shot takes only a moment to administer and can protect oneself and others from the virus.
Flu shots are recommended every year, typically in September or October to allow time for the body to develop antibodies in response to the shot. Every season’s flu shot is slightly different to account for antigenic drift, or how much the influenza virus changes from one season to the next.
There are several types of flu shots available. Some protect against certain strains; others protect against several types of strains at once; some are formulated to be allergen-friendly; and others are specially formulated to better protect the elderly.
