08/31/2026
MYTH VS. FACT: Flu Shot Timing
MYTH: It's too early to get a flu shot in August or early September.
FACT: Getting vaccinated a few weeks to a couple months before flu season peaks (usually December-February) gives your immunity time to build.
MYTH: The flu shot can give you the flu.
FACT: The flu vaccine can't cause flu illness — soreness or mild fatigue afterward is your immune system responding, not the virus itself.
MYTH: If you got the flu last year despite the shot, it's not worth getting again.
FACT: The vaccine is updated most years to match circulating strains, and it still lowers your chances of getting seriously ill even in an off year.
Ready to get ahead of flu season? Flu shots can be received at most local pharmacies. When you get yours call and let us know so we can update your records.