Published October 11, 2023
This year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) influenza (flu) vaccine campaign, Wild to Mild, reminds us that the best way to protect against getting seriously ill from the flu is to get vaccinated. The CDC recommends everyone ages 6 months and older (with rare exceptions) get vaccinated before the end of October. This gives your body enough time to develop antibodies before the flu begins spreading in your community. Children between 6 months and 8 years who have never received a flu vaccine (or when vaccine status cannot be confirmed) will need two vaccines separated by at least 28 days.
The 2023–2024 flu season brings good news for people with egg allergies. Most flu vaccines contain a small amount of egg protein. In prior years, the CDC recommended individuals with egg allergies and a history of allergic symptoms other than hives receive their vaccine in a medical setting set up to manage allergic reactions. Starting now, individuals with egg allergies, regardless of their reaction, no longer need special precautions. They can safely receive any of the flu vaccines (egg based or non-egg based) at any flu shot location.
You can get your flu vaccine at doctor’s offices, clinics, urgent care centers, pharmacies, health departments, schools, and college health centers. To find a location near you, visit: here. To learn more about flu prevention, symptoms, and treatment, visit: here.
