Flu vaccination: who should get vaccinated and when is the best time?

Influenza viruses constantly evolve, which is why the World Health Organization (WHO) reviews vaccine composition twice a year. Vaccines are updated annually to provide protection against the strains that experts expect to circulate during the upcoming flu season. This is why last year's flu shot does not replace vaccination this year.

In this article, we have brought together recommendations from Doctor Sam physicians on who should prioritise flu vaccination, when is the best time to get vaccinated, and whether vaccination is still worthwhile once flu season has begun.

Who should prioritise flu vaccination?

Flu vaccination is recommended for all adults and children aged 6 months and older, provided there are no contraindications. It is particularly important for people at an increased risk of severe influenza and complications.

These groups include:

• Older adults, especially those over 65;
• Children aged 6 months to 5 years;
• Pregnant women;
• People with chronic conditions, including asthma, diabetes, and heart, kidney or liver disease;
• People with weakened immune systems, including those undergoing chemotherapy or taking steroids long-term;
• Healthcare professionals, teachers, military personnel, retail workers and anyone who interacts with large numbers of people on a daily basis.

Even when a chronic condition is well controlled with medication, the risk of flu-related complications may remain elevated. Influenza can worsen an underlying condition and require additional treatment. Therefore, people with chronic health conditions should discuss vaccination with a general practitioner or family doctor.

When should you get vaccinated against influenza?

In Ukraine, September and October are generally the best months for flu vaccination, before seasonal influenza activity begins to increase. According to the CDC recommendations, vaccination should ideally be completed by the end of October.

After receiving the vaccine, the body needs approximately two weeks to develop sufficient immune protection. That is why it is best to plan vaccination in advance, before the virus begins to circulate widely. One dose is generally sufficient to provide protection throughout the flu season.

At the same time, vaccination in July or August is not usually recommended unless there are specific reasons to do so. In some people, particularly older adults, immune protection may gradually decline over time. As a result, vaccination too early may provide less protection towards the end of the season.

Is it worth getting vaccinated if flu season has already started?

Yes. Flu vaccination remains relevant throughout the entire influenza season, even if you have missed the recommended vaccination period. According to the Public Health Center of Ukraine, seasonal influenza circulation in Ukraine usually begins in autumn, with the highest number of cases typically recorded during winter.

It is important to remember that the body needs approximately two weeks after vaccination to develop an immune response.

However, the flu vaccine is not intended to treat an existing infection. If you develop symptoms, contact your doctor to determine the appropriate course of treatment.

Flu vaccination for children: how many doses are needed?

Influenza vaccination is available for children aged 6 months and older. The number of doses depends on the child's age and whether they have previously received a flu vaccine.

• Children aged 6 months to 8 years receiving the flu vaccine for the first time need two doses, administered at least four weeks apart.
• Children who have been vaccinated in previous seasons, as well as children aged 9 years and older, generally need only one dose.

If your child needs two doses, it is best to start the vaccination course early enough to complete it before influenza begins to circulate widely. A paediatrician can help determine the appropriate vaccination schedule based on your child's age and vaccination history.

Children under 6 months of age cannot be vaccinated against influenza. To reduce the risk of infection, it is important for people who have close contact with the infant, including parents and other family members, to be vaccinated.

Flu vaccination: frequently asked questions

Can I get vaccinated if I have a runny nose?

A mild runny nose without other significant symptoms is generally not a reason to postpone vaccination. However, if you have a high fever or a moderate to severe acute illness, vaccination is usually postponed until you feel better. The final decision is made by the doctor after assessing your health.

Who should not receive the flu vaccine?

Flu vaccination is not administered to children under 6 months of age. A severe allergic reaction to a previous vaccine dose or to one of its components may also be a contraindication. Specific restrictions depend on the vaccine product, so the doctor will assess potential risks and contraindications before vaccination.

Can I get vaccinated against influenza and COVID-19 at the same time?

Yes. Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines can generally be administered during the same visit, at different injection sites. This allows you to receive protection against both infections without making an additional trip to the clinic. Your doctor will provide a final recommendation based on your health status.

Can I get vaccinated against influenza during pregnancy?

Yes. Influenza vaccination is recommended for pregnant women during all three trimesters. It helps reduce the risk of severe influenza in the mother and provides the baby with a degree of protection during the first months of life. If you are receiving pregnancy care at Doctor Sam, discuss vaccination with your doctor during your appointment.

How to prepare for flu vaccination

No special preparation is usually required before getting a flu shot. You do not need to have blood tests or arrive on an empty stomach unless your doctor advises otherwise. You can maintain your usual eating routine and continue taking prescribed medications.

Before vaccination, your doctor will ask about your current health, chronic conditions, allergies and any previous adverse reactions to vaccines. They will also check for possible contraindications.

To make your consultation as informative as possible, it is worth preparing information about:

• Medications you take regularly;
• Allergies and reactions to previous vaccinations;
• Recent vaccinations, including COVID-19 vaccines.

After receiving the vaccine, you should remain at the medical facility for at least 15 minutes so that your condition can be monitored. The most common side effects include pain or redness at the injection site, fatigue, muscle aches and a slight increase in body temperature. These reactions usually resolve on their own within a few days.

What to ask your doctor before vaccination

If you have concerns about getting vaccinated, a consultation can help determine the optimal timing and take your individual health circumstances into account. During your appointment, you may wish to ask:

• Do I have any risk factors for severe influenza?
• Which vaccine is available this season, and which influenza strains does it protect against?
• How many doses do I or my child need?
• Can the flu vaccine be administered alongside other vaccinations?
• Which post-vaccination reactions are expected, and when should I contact a doctor?

Where to get a flu shot in Kyiv

You can receive an influenza vaccination at Doctor Sam Medical Centre in Kyiv. Before administering the vaccine, the doctor will assess your health, check for possible contraindications and answer any questions you may have.

To check vaccine availability and book a convenient appointment, please contact the medical centre.

Phone: +380 97 312 92 91

Address: 1 Kiltsеva Road, Respublika Park Shopping Mall, Kyiv