5 Things to Know About This Year’s Flu Shot
Flu season is on its way — and the best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community is by getting vaccinated. Last year was the worst flu season in more than a decade with doctor’s visits and flu hospitalizations reaching record highs according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
At Summit Health and CityMD, it’s easy to stay ahead of the virus: book an appointment with your regular doctor or walk into one of our urgent care locations at your convenience.
Here’s what you need to know about the 2025–2026 flu vaccine:
1. The flu shot is recommended for nearly everyone 6 months and older.
If you’re age 6 months or older, the CDC recommends getting the flu vaccine every year — especially if you’re pregnant, over 65, or living with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease. Not sure if it’s right for you? Talk to your doctor if you have severe allergies or a history of Guillain-Barré syndrome.
2. This year’s vaccine has been updated again.
The 2025–2026 flu vaccine has been reformulated to match the most likely circulating strains. People with egg allergies can safely get any version of the flu vaccine, whether it’s egg-based or not.
3. The best time to get vaccinated is September or October — but it’s never too late.
Plan to get your flu shot in early fall, ideally in September or October, to build up protection before flu season peaks. However, even if you get vaccinated later — in November, December, or beyond — it can still reduce your risk of getting seriously ill.
4. The vaccine helps prevent serious illness — even if you still catch the flu.
Getting the flu shot doesn’t guarantee you won’t get sick — but it does make a big difference. Vaccination can reduce how sick you get, lower your chances of hospitalization, and help protect vulnerable people around you, like babies, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
5. Side effects are typically mild and short-lived.
You might notice a sore arm, slight fever, headache, or fatigue — but these side effects usually go away within a day or two. Serious reactions are extremely rare.
Flu protection made easy.
Whether you visit your Summit Health doctor or walk into a CityMD location near you, we make it quick and convenient to get vaccinated. Let’s stay healthy together this season.
We’re ready to care for you.
Visit any CityMD urgent care location in your community today for an evaluation with one of our expert providers.