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Getting a flu shot helps protect against the most common flu strains. Although experts can't predict when the flu season will be at its peak, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends getting vaccinated by the end of October . But it's never too late to get the flu shot since season may run long, according to Dr. Princess Ogbogu, director of allergy and immunology at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
However, it's best to get the flu shot when your local drugstore starts marketing their availability, Ogbogu says.
"We know that it takes a few weeks to build immunity, so getting it early is wise," she explains to Men's Health.
Generally, it takes two weeks after vaccination to develop antibodies that protect against the flu, according to the CDC. There's a chance you'll be exposed to the flu before or right after your shot , meaning it's possible to get the flu even if you've been vaccinated.
People often believe the flu makes them develop the flu, but that's not true, says Ogbogu. You might feel achy, tired, or have a temperature, but that's because your immune system is building up the antibodies that stave off sickness.
"Overall, the benefit of getting the flu shot outweighs the risk in most patients," she says.