#FluVaccineByHalloween: Power To Protect New Jersey · NJ Department of Health · CDC.gov · College Flu Challenge · Vaccine Finder
Annual flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older as has been the case since 2010. New this season, however, is a preferential recommendation for the use of higher dose and adjuvanted flu vaccines in people 65 and older over standard dose, unadjuvanted flu vaccines.
There are many different flu viruses, and they are constantly changing. The composition of U.S. flu vaccines is reviewed annually and updated as needed. The recommendations for the 2022-2023 season include two updates compared with the recommended composition of last season’s U.S. flu vaccines. Both the influenza A(H3N2) and the influenza B(Victoria lineage) vaccine virus components were updated.
It’s best to be vaccinated in September and October — ideally, everyone should be vaccinated by the end of October. However, even if you are not able to get vaccinated until later, vaccination is still recommended because flu most commonly peaks in February and significant activity can continue into May.
If you get sick with flu, antiviral drugs may be a treatment option. Check with your doctor promptly if you are at higher risk of serious flu complications and you get flu symptoms. People at higher risk of flu complications include young children, adults 65 years of age and older, pregnant people, and people with certain medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease.
When used for treatment, antiviral drugs can lessen symptoms and shorten the time you are sick by 1 or 2 days. They also can prevent serious flu complications, like pneumonia. CDC recommends prompt treatment for people who have flu or suspected flu and who are at higher risk of serious flu complications.