Is it too early to get a flu shot? Last season, NC saw a ‘super flu’ by winter
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
The 2025-26 flu season was intense – a “super flu” caused high hospitalization, including in North Carolina. So when should you get your flu shot this year?
Read more York County charter school leader arrested in NC on embezzlement charges
During respiratory virus season in North Carolina last year, just over 20% of people were vaccinated against the flu, as opposed to a more typical 30-50%, The Observer previously reported.
Ideally, everyone should be vaccinated by the end of October, when respiratory illness season begins, according to the Center for Disease Control, but it isn’t too late to get one afterwards.
Vaccines available for 2026-27 are updated, including against influenza A(H3N2) subclade K virus, referred to as the “super flu.” A newer mRNA option will be available this fall. Talk to your doctor to determine which vaccine is best for you.
Influenza kills hundreds of thousands each year, and it can cause complications including pneumonia, dehydration and encephalopathy.
Flu vaccines are almost always covered by insurance as a part of preventative care. Free vaccines may be available at locations like colleges and clinics for those without insurance.
Vaccines typically become available in late August and September and they’re available through fall and winter, tapering in spring as flu season wraps up. As the rollout starts, many vaccines are already available at doctor’s offices and clinics such as CVS Minute Clinic.
People with preexisting conditions are at higher risk of hospitalization due to the flu, as are older people and young children.
Read more Fort Mill will get a new soul food restaurant this fall. Here’s what to expect
The CDC says that for an average person, it is ideal to get a flu vaccine in September or October.
A new mRNA vaccine option targeted towards older adults was approved for use by the FDA in August. The vaccine will now be available to those over 50. Moderna plans to have the vaccine available this fall, according to CNN.
The CDC recommends the flu vaccine yearly for everyone over 6 months of age, with rare exceptions. Not all influenza vaccines are approved for everyone, like the new mRNA vaccine.
If your child is frightened of needles, another option is nasal spray. This form of vaccine is approved for people ages 2-49.
If you are pregnant, the CDC recommends a shot, rather than nasal spray. Getting vaccinated while pregnant protects not only the mother from complications, but protects babies for their first several months of life, before they can be vaccinated.
Questions about life in North Carolina? Or have a tip or story idea you’d like to share? The service journalism teams at The News & Observer and The Charlotte Observer want to hear from you.
Read more Frozen fruit bars sold at NC stores may contain glass, prompting massive recall
You can submit your question by filling out this form.
