Influenza Vaccination 2024-25: Essential Guide for Prevention
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. Each year, flu viruses circulate widely in the U.S. during late fall, winter, and early spring. While it can lead to severe illness, hospitalizations, and even death, influenza is preventable through annual vaccination, early diagnosis, and timely medical care.
Why Annual Influenza Vaccination is Crucial
Routine annual vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older without contraindications. Vaccination helps reduce the spread, lowers the risk of severe complications, and protects vulnerable populations.
Ideal Timing for Vaccination
The best time to get vaccinated is during September and October, just before flu season peaks. However, vaccination can continue throughout the season while flu viruses are circulating.
Special Considerations
- People 65 and older, and pregnant individuals in their first or second trimester: It’s advisable to avoid vaccination in July and August to maintain optimal protection through peak flu months.
- Children aged 6 months to 8 years: Those needing two doses should get the first dose as soon as the vaccine is available. Children who need only one dose may get vaccinated in July or August.
- Pregnant individuals in their third trimester: Vaccination in July or August can be considered to provide immunity for both the parent and newborn.
Dose Recommendations for Children (6 months to 8 years)
Children in this age group may require one or two doses depending on their vaccination history.
Vaccination Options for Adults 65 and Older
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends one of the following:
- High-Dose Inactivated Influenza Vaccine (HD-IIV3, Fluzone High-Dose)
- Recombinant Influenza Vaccine (RIV3, Flublok)
- Adjuvanted Inactivated Influenza Vaccine (aIIV3, Fluad)
If these options are not available, other age-appropriate vaccines may be used.
For more information on recommendations for immunocompromised individuals, those with chronic medical conditions, people with egg allergies, and those with past severe vaccine reactions, please consult the CDC’s full guidelines here.
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