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The flu is here and so is the decision about when to get your flu shot.
According to some reports, doctors say if you get it now, you may not be protected the entire flu season, but that may not be the case.
Dr. Arash Tirandaz, General Practitioner at Texas Health Plano, says North Texas weather patterns result in an unpredictable flu season.
"With the change in the weather pattern we're seeing, we are having crazy weather all year long. There's no guarantee that the major flu outbreak is going to be in January or in February. It might be in November, so then you'll be out of luck if you wait until then," said Tirandaz.
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that flu vaccinations begin by the end of October, if possible.
While seasonal flu outbreaks can happen as early as October, most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February, although activity can last as late as May.
There is some evidence, however, that immunity may decline more quickly in older people.
For older adults, a “high-dose” vaccine, designed specifically for people 65 and older, is recommended.
This vaccine contains a higher dose of antigen (the part of the vaccine that prompts the body to make antibody).
"Once you get the immunologic reaction, it's kind of like chicken pox or any other vaccine. It should last life-long. The only reason we get a shot every year is because the strain of the flu changes," said Dr. Tirandaz.
According to the CDC, "while delaying getting of vaccine until later in the fall may lead to higher levels of immunity during winter months, this should be balanced against possible risks, such as missed opportunities to receive vaccine and difficulties associated with vaccinating a large number of people within a shorter time period."
Doctors recommend the quadrivalent flu vaccine, which protects against four different flu viruses, for all adults.
