Flu season usually starts in October, gets worse between December and February, and can last until May. It’s possible to catch the flu year-round.
Last season was particularly severe. Flu hospitalizations reached a decade high during the 2023-24 season. Tennessee experienced very high flu activity through much of the season.
“The best time to get your flu shot is before the flu starts spreading in your area,” says Dr. Lisa Staton, a medical director for BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee.
Why early protection matters
Dr. Staton: Your body needs about two weeks to build up antibodies after getting vaccinated. Getting your flu shot early gives you protection before flu activity increases in your community.
Flu isn’t “just a cold.” Every year, it causes millions of people to get sick, sends hundreds of thousands to the hospital, and leads to tens of thousands of deaths. Complications of flu can include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma or diabetes.
Who should get the flu shot
Dr. Staton: Everyone aged 6 months and older is recommended to get a flu vaccine every year, unless they have a medical reason not to get one. This helps protect you and the people around you from serious illness.
Flu shots are especially important for people at higher risk of complications, including:
- Adults 65 and older
- People with chronic health conditions (asthma, diabetes or heart disease)
- Those who are pregnant
- Young children
- People who live or work in long-term care settings
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Types of flu vaccines available
Dr. Staton: In addition to the standard flu shot, there are several other types of flu vaccines. Talk to your doctor about which option is best for you.
Nasal spray vaccine: Needle-free option that contains a weakened form of the virus and is approved for healthy individuals aged 2 to 49.
High-dose flu vaccines: Designed for people 65 and older, it offers a stronger protection by containing more antigen.
Cell-based flu vaccine: Grown in cultured cells rather than eggs, potentially offering better protection against circulating strains.
Recombinant flu vaccines: Use DNA technology to produce the viral proteins. This makes them suitable for people with egg allergies.
Other ways to protect yourself
Dr. Staton: These strategies can also help reduce your risk of flu:
- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid close contact with people who are coughing, sneezing, or showing flu symptoms.
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces regularly, as flu viruses can survive on surfaces for hours.
- Support your immune system with a nutrient-rich diet, adequate sleep, and regular exercise.
- Stay hydrated and manage stress, as chronic stress can suppress immune function.
Other fall vaccines to consider
Dr. Staton: The CDC recommends getting both flu and COVID-19 vaccines this fall. RSV vaccines are also available for certain age groups. Talk with your health care provider about which vaccines are right for you.
“Getting vaccinated helps protect not just yourself, but your community,” Dr. Staton says. “Staying ahead of the flu is one of the best things you can do for your health this fall.”
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Get more information about specific health terms, topics and conditions to better manage your health on bcbst.com. BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee members can access wellness-related discounts on fitness products, gym memberships, healthy eating and more through Blue365®. BCBST members can also find tools and resources to help improve health and well-being by logging into BlueAccess and going to the Managing Your Health tab.