Doctors: get your flu vaccinations as soon as possible
Key Points:
- Flu activity in the U.S. is increasing earlier than usual, with a 5% rise in cases reported in the first week of October, according to CDC data.
- Dartmouth Health officials recommend that everyone aged six months and older get their flu shot as soon as possible to build immunity, which takes about two weeks.
- The flu vaccine is 40-60% effective in preventing illness and is crucial for reducing hospitalizations and protecting vulnerable populations.
- Vaccinating parents, caregivers, and close contacts is essential to protect infants and other high-risk individuals from severe flu complications.
- Common flu symptoms include high fever, muscle aches, fatigue, and cough.