As you bask in the final weeks of summer, here’s something I’m sure you’re thinking about: flu shots. They’re already here—Rite Aid just announced that seasonal flu shots are available at all 2,466 of its pharmacies.
All who are able should get a flu shot every single year. But should you get one right this moment? The answer is a bit complicated.
You want to make sure you’re vaccinated in advance if the flu comes to your area. But there may be potential drawbacks in getting the vaccine too early. According to CDC experts, several studies have shown that flu vaccines wane in effectiveness within an influenza season. Doctors cannot predict when a flu season will peak, and if it happens late—say, early April—those who got the vaccine in August may have lower levels of protection at the most dangerous time.
A University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine analysis showed that in normal and late flu seasons, waiting until October to get the vaccination can be beneficial for older adults and even save hundreds of lives. The risk there is that the flu season can come early, so lead author Dr. Kenneth J. Smith calls it “a balancing act.” (The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone over the age of six months get a flu shot by the end of October.)
In any scenario, an early flu shot is better than no flu shot, so if the vaccine is available near you now and you think you might not come back later, then it’s best to just get it done. Also, there are some people who should absolutely get the flu shot ASAP, including certain children who will require two doses of the vaccine.