Last year’s flu season was a tough one, reminding us how important it is to stay protected with preventive care. For reference, last year’s flu season was one of the worst in a decade, with many people getting sick and ending up in hospitals. As winter approaches, it’s time to prioritize your health by getting vaccinated to protect yourself and your loved ones.
While the flu shot remains your first line of defense to fight off winter illness, it's not the only vaccination you should consider. A comprehensive approach to winter wellness includes several key vaccines that work together to keep you healthy when respiratory viruses are at their peak.
Below we will look at why you need to get the flu shot every year as well as what other vaccines you should consider getting before winter arrives.
Why you need a flu shot every year
Flu shots are your first line of defense against the flu. If you got the flu shot last year, you might wonder if you need to get it again this year. The answer is yes, because flu viruses change constantly. That is why each year a new flu vaccine is created to target the specific flu strains most likely to spread that season.
According to the CDC, getting the flu shot lowers your chances of catching the flu by 40–60%. It also makes sure that if you do get sick, your symptoms are milder and don’t last as long. Plus, getting vaccinated helps protect people around you, especially those who can’t get a flu shot for medical reasons.
If you’re 65 or older, ask your primary care doctor or advanced practice provider* (APP) about the high-dose flu vaccine, which provides stronger protection for older adults.
Other vaccines to consider to keep you healthy all winter
While the flu shot is a key part of staying healthy, it’s not the only vaccine to think about getting to stay healthy. Here are three others to consider adding to your winter wellness plan:
- COVID-19 booster: COVID-19 hasn’t gone away, and like the flu, the virus keeps changing. That’s why it is important to stay up to date with boosters, which are updated to fight the latest variants. You can even get your flu shot and COVID-19 booster at the same time. Ask your doctor or APP if a COVID-19 booster is right for you.
- RSV vaccine: Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) isn’t just a problem for children. Adults over 60 are also at risk for the disease, especially if they have heart or lung problems. The RSV vaccine helps protect you against serious illness and is now recommended for older adults. If you are in this age group, talk to your doctor or APP about getting vaccinated.
- Pneumonia vaccine: Pneumonia is a serious illness that can happen after illnesses like the flu weaken your body. The pneumonia vaccine protects against the most common type of bacterial pneumonia. If you are 65 or older, of if it has been more than five years since your last pneumonia vaccine, check with your doctor or APP to see if you need to get vaccinated.
When to get vaccinated
For the best protection, aim to get your flu shot between September and early November. But if you don’t make that timeframe, remember it’s never too late. Flu season can last until May, so the shot is still beneficial even later in the season.
COVID-19 boosters, RSV vaccines, and pneumonia vaccines don’t require special timing. They can often be given during your regular doctor or APP visits or trips to the pharmacy.
By taking simple steps now, you can help avoid getting sick this winter. Schedule your vaccinations today, whether through your doctor, APP, local pharmacy or community clinic. Be sure to bring your vaccine records with you and ask them any questions you have.
Getting vaccinated doesn’t just protect you. It also helps safeguard your family, friends, and others in your community who may be more vulnerable to serious illnesses. After last year’s difficult flu season, it’s clear that these small steps can make a big difference.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—take action today to enjoy a healthier, safer winter season.
* An advanced practice provider includes a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.