Flu FAQs

Woman is getting a flu shot at doctor's office.

Yes. Vaccines for other viruses, like COVID-19, do not protect you against the seasonal flu, so you should still get a flu vaccine even if you’ve already received other vaccines.

A flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. Instead, it stimulates an immune system response so that your body is prepared to resist the virus. Allergic reactions to the flu vaccine are possible, but extremely rare. What remains important is that flu vaccines work and can save lives.

Learn more about how vaccines protect your body against viruses.

Yes, children should get the seasonal flu vaccine. Parents and caretakers of children, especially those under age five, need to be aware of the dangers of the flu. Highly contagious and more dangerous than the common cold, the flu infects millions of children every year. Children with serious health problems like asthma, diabetes, and neurological and immune system disorders are especially vulnerable to infection.

Fortunately, there is a safe and reliable way to protect your children. Several different flu vaccines exist for each different strain of flu. The vaccine your child receives depends on their age and what strains of flu are predicted to be active this year. Health care providers at AdvantageCare Physicians will know what vaccines are right for your child.

For more information about children and the flu, visit the CDC’s website.

The best time to receive your seasonal flu vaccine is in September or October. However, getting vaccinated late in the season is still better than not getting vaccinated at all.

Flu season ramps up in October and ends its peak in February but can continue into May. That’s why we recommend patients get vaccinated as early in the season as possible. Children who need two doses of the vaccine should go earlier because the vaccines must be spaced at least four weeks apart. Note: It takes around two weeks to achieve immunization after receiving a flu vaccination.

Yes, pregnant women can receive the flu vaccine recommended for their age.

While the flu vaccine is recommended for most people age 6 months and older, there are exceptions. Patients with Guillain-Barre syndrome and patients with life-threatening allergies to ingredients in the vaccine, such as gelatin and antibiotics, should consult their doctor before getting vaccinated. Patients with egg allergies should consult these guidelines.

A healthcare professional prepares a child for a seasonal flu shot

YOUR ANNUAL FLU VACCINATION

2024-2025 Flu Season

Your annual flu vaccine remains an effective way to lower your risk of contracting the seasonal flu and spreading it to others in your community.

Two mature women consult device for raising awareness of immunizations

Why Get Vaccinated?

In our offices and out in the communities we serve, we are raising awareness about the importance of immunizing yourself and your loved ones.

Children walking home from school

NEW SCHOOL YEAR, NEW CARE NEEDS

Back to School

Help your child prepare for the new school year by scheduling an appointment for their annual health needs.

In observance of Christmas and New Year’s, ACPNY offices will be operating on a holiday schedule. For your convenience, select offices will remain open. Learn more.