Why health officials say now is the time to get a flu shot

It’s the perfect time to get your flu shot before the holidays.

Health officials with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) say it takes two weeks after your annual vaccination for your body to build up enough immunity to protect against serious flu illness.

Getting vaccinated within the next week will provide maximum protection for the end-of-year holidays.

“Flu season is unpredictable and we do not want to underestimate the impact of the virus on the health of our family members,” said Dr. Michigan Chief Medical Executive Natasha Bagdasarian said in a prepared statement.

Doctors say getting the flu shot is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from getting the flu. The vaccination, recommended annually for everyone 6 months and older, is generally safe with rare exceptions and reduces the risk of illness, hospitalization and death, according to MDHHS.

A nationwide flu vaccination awareness campaign runs from December 2nd to 6th. Bagdasarian said the designated week is a reminder for those who have not yet been vaccinated to make plans to reduce changes in serious outcomes, including hospitalizations.

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of flu-like illnesses in Michigan and the entire U.S. remains minimal as of November 23, with only Louisiana and Georgia approaching moderate to high levels.

The CDC estimates that there have been 430,000 to 830,000 cases of flu illness nationwide since October 1, with 5,600 to 12,000 requiring hospitalization and 240 to 1,200 deaths. According to the state, two childhood deaths related to influenza have not been reported so far this year, neither in Michigan nor in Michigan.

Flu shot administration has fallen again this year. As of mid-November, Michigan had administered more than 2.13 million flu shots — about 53% of the goal (4 million), but fewer than the state had administered this time last year.

The 2023-24 season had the lowest vaccination rate in at least five years (26.6%). Since reporting 34.3% coverage in 2020-21, the health department has seen three consecutive annual declines.

Flu, coronavirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines are available at local health departments, doctor’s offices and pharmacies throughout Michigan. All three shots can be given together.

Visit Vaccine Finder to find a vaccine provider near you. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/covidflursv.