Which Flu Vaccine Is Right for You?
This information has been reviewed and approved by Jared Eddy, MD and Patrick Stendel, MPH, Infection Preventionist (September 2023).
Which Flu Vaccine is Right for You?
CDC Recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older.
Standard Flu Shot
- Infants > 6 months
- Healthy Adults
- Pregnant Women
"Needle-Free" Flu Shot
- Ages 18-64
Nasal Spray*
- Healthy, non-pregnant
- Ages 2-49
- Physician advice recommended
High-Dose Flu Shot
- Age 65 or older
Flu Facts
- Flu viruses circulate year-round.
- Viruses cause the flu, not the flu vaccine.
- You need two weeks for the flu vaccine to start protecting you.
- Immunity declines over time — get vaccinated each year.
- Flu mostly spreads by coughing & sneezing.
- Flu complications include bacterial pneumonia, sinus infections and worsening asthma.
Prevention Tips
- Clean your hands often with soap and water.
- Use sanitizer when soap and water are not available.
- Don't touch your face with unwashed hands.
- Smiling boosts your immunity.
- Eat healthy, balanced meals to strengthen your immune system.
- Exercise to boost immunity and speed recovery from illness.
- Stay home for a full 24 hours after your fever is gone.
- Get vaccinated for protection against the flu.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
EGG-FREE VACCINE UPDATE
People with egg allergy may receive any vaccine (egg-based or non-egg-based) that is otherwise appropriate for their age and health status. Beginning with the 2023-2024 season, additional safety measures are no longer recommended for flu vaccination of people who are allergic to eggs beyond those recommended for receipt of any vaccine, regardless of the severity of previous reaction to egg.
* No U.S. effectiveness data since ingredients changed for 2017-2018 flu season