Important Facts to Know About the Flu Shot
 
It’s a good idea to get your flu shot in September or as soon as the vaccine is available. It takes about two weeks after you get a shot for your body to develop the antibodies that protect you, so you want to get it early before the flu is widespread. Outbreaks can begin as early as October, with the season peaking in January.
 
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone older than six months get a flu shot each year. The following groups of people especially should get a shot:

• Those with a high risk of developing pneumonia
• Those ages 65 and older
• Pregnant women
• Those with medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma and lung disease, and their caregivers

 
You can’t get the flu from the flu shot because the viruses in the serum are inactive, so they can’t infect you. But there are many strains of the flu, and you could be infected by one not covered by the shot. Even so, getting a shot can help lessen symptoms and decrease the amount of days you’re sick if you do get the flu.
 
Talk to your doctor if you have questions about the flu shot and your health. It could be the key to staying healthy this flu season.