Beat the Bug Before It Bites: Why September Is the Right Time for Your Annual Flu Shot

Fall in South Georgia brings football games, cooler mornings, and , unfortunately, the start of flu season. Even though flu cases usually climb later in the year, September is the perfect time to get protected before the virus starts making its rounds. 

"Flu shots don't work overnight," explains Sarah Brooks, FNP-C, a primary care provider at Archbold Primary Care - Pelham. "Your body needs about two weeks to build up immunity, which is why we commend people get vaccinated before flu season really kicks in."

Why September Is the Best Month for a Flu Shot

Although flu activity often ramps up in October and November, waiting until then to get your flu shot may leave you vulnerable. By getting vaccinated in September, you give your immune system the time it needs to respond, so you're protected when flu season is at its worst.

"Think of the flu vaccine like putting on armor before the battle begins," says Sarah. "If you wait until the fight is already underway, it may be too late to protect yourself."

Busting Common Flu Shot Myths

You've probably heard mixed opinions about the flu shot—some from friends, others from social media. But here's the truth: the flu vaccine has been around for decades and is backed by strong evidence that it prevents serious illness. Still, a few myths continue to make people second-guess it. At Archbold, we want our patients to have the facts so they can make the best decisions for their health. Let's take a closer look at those myths and set the record straight.

• "The flu shot can give me the flu."
  False. Flu vaccines use an inactivated virus, which cannot cause infection. You may feel mild soreness or fatigue afterward, but that's just your immune system working. 
   
• "I'm healthy, so I don't need a flu shot."
  Even healthy adults can get sick and spread the flu to others who are more vulnerable, like children, older adults, or people with chronic conditions.
   
• "I got a flu shot last year, so I'm covered."
  The flu virus changes from year to year, so the vaccine is updated annually. Last year's shot won't protect you from this year's strains. 

It's Not Just About You: Getting Vaccinated Protests Everyone Around You

Flu shots aren't just about keeping yourself healthy—they're about protecting the people around you. When you get vaccinated, you help reduce the spread of the flu to those who are most vulnerable, like young children, older adults, and people living with chronic health conditions. And while many think of the flu as a few missed days of work or school, the reality can be much more serious. Each year, flu-related complications lead to hospitalizations and can even become life-threatening for those at higher risk. 

"By choosing to get your flu shot, you're playing a part in keeping South Georgia safer and healthier," said Sarah. "It's one of the easiest ways we can all work together to protect our families, neighbors, and communities during flu season."

Who Should Get a Flu Shot? 

The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone six months and older, with very few exceptions. While it's important for everyone, there are certain groups who are at higher risk of developing serious complications if they catch the flu. For them, a flu shot can make an even bigger difference. 

• Adults over age 65
  As we age, our immune systems naturally weaken, making it harder to fight off infections. Flu vaccines can help reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization. 
   
• Young children
  Kids, especially those under five, are more likely to develop complications like pneumonia from the flu. Vaccination gives them a strong layer of protection as they head into the school and daycare season. 
   
• Pregnant women
  Flu shots not only protect expectant mothers but also pass on some immunity to their newborns in those critical first few months of life. 
   
• People with chronic health conditions
  Individuals living with asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or weakened immune systems face a greater chance of severe illness from the flu. Vaccination lowers that risk significantly. 

Where to Get Your Flu Shot in South Georgia

Flu shots are available at primary care offices across South Georgia, including Archbold Primary Care - Pelham, where Sarah sees patients. 

"Our goal is to remove barriers," says Sarah. "Getting a flu shot should be quick, convenient, and part of your yearly health routine."

Schedule Your Flu Shot at Archbold Today!

Getting a flu shot is one of the simplest ways to keep yourself and those around you healthy this fall and winter. 

Contact an Archbold Primary Care clinic in South Georgia today to get your flu shot.