Summary
- The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccine, with some rare exceptions.
- The best time to get a flu shot is September or October.
- Some children need two doses of the flu shot, 4 weeks apart. Others only need one dose.
Around mid-August, we usually start seeing flu shot signs pop up at the local pharmacy. You may be wondering when the best time is to get a flu shot for your child. As you may know, the CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot every year, with some rare exceptions. But when is the best time to get a flu shot for kids?
It takes about 2 weeks for the flu shot to be effective. This is because it takes time for your child’s body to build antibodies against the flu virus.
When is the best time for my child to get a flu shot?
Flu season in the U.S. is typically in the fall and winter months, peaking between December and February. The CDC recommends getting an annual flu shot in September and October. If your child only needs one dose (see below for more information), it is ideal for them to get the flu shot before the end of October. If they need two doses, they should get their first dose as soon as the vaccine is available because they need to wait 4 weeks until they can get their second dose.
Each child is different, so it is important to discuss the best time for them to get their flu shot with your child’s pediatrician. In some situations, they may recommend a flu shot for your child outside of these general guidelines.
How long does it take for the 2024-25 flu shot to work?
It takes about 2 weeks for the flu shot to be effective. This is because it takes time for your child’s body to build antibodies against the flu virus.
How long does the flu shot last?
The flu shot is designed to offer protection throughout the flu season, but this protection wanes over time. The exact timing of protection depends on many factors, and is different each season. Each year, many different flu viruses go around. Because they change quickly, it is hard to know how long protection from the flu shot will last. This is why it is recommended to get a new, updated flu shot each flu season. And it’s true that getting a flu shot too early (July or August) might cause it to work less well during the peak of the flu season or later.
One study showed that protection from the flu shot may last up to about 6 months, but that it decreases with time after getting the vaccine. Length of protection can also depend on a person’s immune system, age, and medical conditions, as well as previous vaccination history.
Which flu shot 2024-25 is available?
For the 2024-25 flu season, there are injectable flu shots and a nasal spray flu vaccine available. The injections can be used for children 6 months and older, while the nasal spray is only for children 2 years and up. Keep in mind that the nasal spray is a live vaccine, so this might not be appropriate for children with certain medical conditions.
How many doses of the flu shot does my child need?
According to the 2024-25 Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations, children 9 years and older only need one dose of the flu shot. If your child is between 6 months and 9 years old, they may need to receive two doses given at least 4 weeks apart. Discuss how many doses of the flu vaccine your child needs with their pediatrician.
Where can my child get a flu shot?
Your child can typically get a flu shot from their pediatrician’s office. You can also check with your local public health department. Many times, they offer flu shot clinics or appointments.
Many pharmacies offer the flu shot for children as well. For example, your child can get a Walgreens flu shot if they are at least 3 years old. You can also make a CVS flu shot appointment for children as young as 3 years old in many locations. It can depend on the state and pharmacist at the specific location, so it is best to always call ahead.
Can my child still get the flu after getting vaccinated?
Yes, it is possible for your child to get sick with influenza after getting a flu shot. However, studies have shown that the flu shot can make the flu less severe. How well the flu shot works varies each year, and depends on how well it matches the current strains that circulate.
This information is current as of October 9, 2024. It is intended for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2024. Influenza: ACIP Recommendations Summary. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/hcp/acip/
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2024. Key Facts About Seasonal Flu Vaccine. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/vaccines/keyfacts.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2024. Who Needs a Flu Vaccine. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/vaccines/vaccinations.html
European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. 2024. Timing of influenza vaccination. https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/seasonal-influenza/prevention-and-control/vaccines/timing
Hu, W., et. al. 2022. Waning Vaccine Protection against Influenza among Department of Defense Adult Beneficiaries in the United States, 2016–2017 through 2019–2020 Influenza Seasons. In: Vaccines. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390%2Fvaccines10060888
