Children's Vaccines Health Center

Seasonal Flu Shot and Nasal Spray

When Is the Right Time to Get Vaccinated for the Seasonal Flu?

The vaccine is usually available in early fall. It can take up to a couple of weeks for the body to build immunity to the flu. So the best time to get a shot is as soon as the vaccine becomes available. But if you didn't get one before the season started, it's a good idea to still get one during the season to lower your risk of getting sick?

Are There Side Effects to the Flu Vaccine?

Some people experience soreness or swelling at the site of the flu shot injection. And some have mild side effects like a headache, cough, body aches, or fever. These usually clear up in about one to two days.

The nasal spray sometimes causes mild symptoms, including:

• runny nose, congestion, or cough
• headache
• vomiting
• muscle aches
• fever

Where Can People Get a Flu Vaccine?

There are actually several places where you can go to get a flu vaccine, including:

• health care settings such as a doctor's office and health clinics
• pharmacies
• supermarkets
• community groups

The CDC's Flu.gov web site has an interactive seasonal flu clinic locator that you can use to find a location for a flu vaccine near you.