Although COVID-19 has been top of mind over the past year,  the flu is still a serious illness that needs to be addressed, as it can also lead to hospitalization and even death. If you haven’t already gotten your flu shot, it is still important to do so to decrease your chances of getting the flu. 

When Should You Get the Flu Shot?

It is recommended that you get your flu shot annually before “flu season” starts up. According to the CDC, it is recommended that adults and children older than 6 months get a flu vaccine by the end of October. It can take up to two weeks for your body to create the antibodies for the flu, so it is better to get it earlier rather than later to help you from getting the flu later in the season. 

Even if you wait until after October, it is still important to get vaccinated. The FDA has stated that “Influenza (flu) viruses typically spread in fall and winter, with activity peaking between December and February”. The CDC mentions that the shots should be offered throughout the flu season, which can last until April or May. As long as there are still existing strains of the virus, you can get a vaccine. Even if you get it now, it’s not too late.

Charles Golden, the Vice President and Executive Medical Director of CHOC Children’s Primary Care Network, said, “It’s only too late when the seasonal supply of flu vaccine is exhausted”.

Even though you may think it is irrelevant now, the flu season is not over, and it is better to err on the side of caution and get one just in case!

Contact South Coast Medical Group OC if You’re Feeling Sick

We want to make sure your health is optimized at all times.  We also want to be mindful that COVID-19 still has a presence here in Southern California.

If you are not feeling well and would like to get the Sofia 2 Rapid COVID-19 test, please call us at (949) 360-1069 to schedule an appointment. 

If you would like to set up an in-person or telemedicine visit, our hours of operation are: 

Monday-Friday: 8:00 a.m.- 7:00 p.m.

Saturday: 9:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.

Sunday: 10:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.

The safety of our patients and staff is our top priority. We are located in Aliso Viejo, California, and we offer a wide range of services such as urgent and primary care, sports medicine, and x-rays. If you need help with any of these services, please contact us at (949) 389- 8968. We appreciate the trust our patients have in us and look forward to being of service to you.