While flu season typically does not begin for another four months, it can start as soon as November; and with the adult vaccine available now, doctors recommend that you get a flu shot sooner rather than later.
"This year, anyone that wants to get the flu vaccine, wants to prevent themselves from getting sick, should get the flu vaccine, particularly for those that are over the age of 65 definitely should consider it," Dr. John Carlo of the Dallas County Health Department said.
The children's vaccine should be available in a few weeks and new recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are calling for all children aged 5 to 18 to get it, Carlo said.
"Go ahead and get that flu shot. It not only protects the school-age children, but also the family members that may be in the same household," he said.
He said children under the age of 5 should also get flu shots, starting at 6 months.
"Children under the age of 9, studies have shown that it's best served to have two vaccines on that first year that you get the flu vaccine," he said.
Doctors say they do not expect any shortages of the flu vaccine this year.
