The Illinois Department of Public Health, along with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is recommending everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot as soon as it is available. Read more on our FAQ Flu page.
There are 3 different flu shots available, as well as a nasal spray.
Regular flu shot approved for people ages 6 months and older
High-dose flu shot approved for people 65 and older
Intradermal flu shot (smaller needle) approved for people 18 to 64 years of age.
When should I get my flu shot?
It is never too early to receive your flu shot. You can be vaccinated in September and be protected throughout the entire flu season. The season typically runs from October through May with the peak in January. It takes about 2 weeks after receiving the vaccine for antibodies to build up in the body, so it is important to get the vaccine before you start seeing flu activity.
To reduce the spread of influenza and other contagious diseases, it is always important to practice the 3 C's-
Clean- properly wash your hands frequently
Cover- cover your cough and sneeze
Contain- contain your germs by staying home if you are sick.
