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Seasonal flu activity was unusually low in 2021-22. It was actually the lowest since data collection started in 2005. Seeing cases of influenza, as we did throughout the summer, was also atypical. This abnormal presentation of the flu is likely due to all the precautions in place for the COVID-19 pandemic.
Annual flu vaccines have been a universal CDC recommendation for everyone 6 months and older since 2010. It should be given in September and October. If not given by month’s end, it will still be protective. Flu vaccines work by causing antibodies to develop. These antibodies provide protection against flu illness about two weeks after injection. They are designed to protect against the flu viruses that research suggests will be most prevalent.
Vaccines are needed annually for two reasons. First, one’s immune protection wanes over time. Second, the flu viruses are constantly changing. Effectiveness varies season to season, depending on one’s age and health and the match to the circulating viruses.
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