Flu Season Is Coming: When Should Older Adults Get Their Flu Shot?

As fall approaches, flu prevention becomes especially important for older adults. Adults age 65 and older are at greater risk for serious complications from influenza, making annual vaccination an important part of staying well.

But earlier isn't always better.

Although flu vaccines may become available as early as August, the CDC generally recommends that most adults—especially those age 65 and older—receive their flu vaccine in September or October, ideally by the end of October. Protection from the vaccine can decrease over time, so getting vaccinated too early may mean less protection later in the flu season.

At Senior Moments Care, we will be offering flu vaccinations for our patients this fall and can help determine the appropriate vaccine and timing for you.

Cold, Flu or COVID-19?

It isn't always easy to tell the difference.

Common Cold: Usually develops gradually and is more likely to cause a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing and sore throat. Symptoms are generally milder.

Influenza: Often comes on suddenly and may cause fever, chills, significant fatigue, headache, body aches and cough.

COVID-19: Can look very similar to influenza and may include fever, cough, fatigue, sore throat, congestion and body aches. Because symptoms overlap, you cannot reliably distinguish COVID-19 from influenza based on symptoms alone—testing may be necessary.

For our older patients, we encourage families to contact us early when new respiratory symptoms develop rather than simply assuming it's "just a cold."

Learn More:CDC — Flu Vaccination: When to Get Your Flu Vaccine

CDC — Cold vs. Flu

CDC — Flu vs. COVID-19