It’s never too late: why you should still get a flu shot.

When is flu season and how late can you get vaccinated?

Flu season typically runs from October to May, with cases peaking between December and February. However, the flu virus doesn’t stick to a strict schedule. It can spread well into spring, especially in some regions.

Vaccination efforts often kick off in early fall to prepare people before the season peaks. But what if you miss the early window? The good news is that it’s never “too late” to get your flu shot.

Why timing matters for the flu shot.

The flu shot takes about two weeks to become fully effective. That’s how long your body needs to build up immunity after the vaccination.

Even if flu season has already started, getting the shot can still offer protection, especially during peak months. Late vaccination can also help reduce the spread of the virus to those around you.

Is it too late to get a flu shot? Key timing tips.

If you’re wondering whether it’s worth vaccinating now, the answer is almost always yes. 

Here’s why.

1. The flu is unpredictable. While the flu season has an average timeline, outbreaks can occur at any point. A late flu shot still protects against these unpredictable spikes.
2. It protects those around you. Even if you’re healthy, a flu shot can prevent you from spreading the virus to vulnerable people, such as young children, older adults, or those with weakened immune systems.
3. Better late than never. While early vaccination is ideal, getting vaccinated later can still reduce the severity of symptoms if you do catch the flu.

If you’ve been hesitating, now is the time to act. A flu shot later in the season is far better than no shot at all.

Why flu shots are effective, even late in the season.

Flu shots introduce your body to a small, harmless piece of the flu virus. This helps your immune system recognize the virus and build defenses against it.

Even if you get vaccinated later in the season, you still give your body a better chance to fight the flu. Research shows that people who get the flu shot are less likely to experience severe illness, hospitalizations, or complications like pneumonia.

Flu shots don’t just protect you either—they protect everyone around you. This is especially important for people who can’t get vaccinated, like infants under six months or those with severe allergies to the vaccine. By getting your shot, you’re helping create a safer environment for your community.

It’s never too late to protect yourself from the flu.

Even if flu season feels like it’s winding down, getting vaccinated is always a smart choice. The flu virus can surprise us, with spikes happening unexpectedly. A late flu shot means you’re still taking an active step to protect yourself and those around you.

Take the next step with CityMD.

Don’t let flu season catch you off guard. Whether early in the season or months later, getting a flu shot is one of the best ways to protect your health. It’s quick, easy and can save you from days—or even weeks—of illness.

At CityMD, we make getting your flu shot simple and convenient because your health matters to us. Stop by your nearest location today and take the first step toward staying healthy.