With October underway, medical groups are urging people to get their flu shots before the virus spreads widely. The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the Infectious Diseases Society of America have all posted vaccination guidelines. They stepped in because the CDC's independent advisory panel is caught in a court battle, leaving federal advice unpublished.
The societies agree that nearly everyone starting at age 6 months should get a flu vaccine. Flu is especially dangerous for people 65 and older, pregnant women, young children, and those with chronic conditions. Last year's shot reduced hospitalizations among older adults by 31%, according to the Vaccine Integrity Project at the University of Minnesota. The vaccine does not guarantee protection, but as one emergency physician put it, it works like a seat belt to lower the risk of the worst outcomes.
Several options are available. Three enhanced vaccines are designed for seniors, and the FDA recently approved the first mRNA flu vaccine, mFlusiva, for people 50 and older. A study found it was 27% more effective against symptomatic illness in 50- to 64-year-olds than a standard shot. A nasal spray, FluMist, is an option for ages 2 to 49 who meet health criteria. Doctors say October is best, since protection takes about two weeks to develop.
Updated COVID-19 shots are also available, though federal approval is limited to higher-risk people. The family physicians recommend all adults get one, and the pediatricians support vaccinating young children and older kids with high-risk conditions. RSV shots are recommended for older adults and other vulnerable groups. Common side effects for flu and COVID vaccines are mild and temporary, such as sore arms, fatigue, and headache.