Which flu shot is right for you?

Getting your annual flu shot is one of the best ways to safeguard your health. The influenza vaccine can help you avoid catching the flu — and even if you do become infected, it can help you avoid serious illness or hospitalization. 

Each year, millions of people get the flu, leading to hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations. Flu vaccination is crucial not only for protecting yourself but also for reducing the spread of the virus in your community. By getting vaccinated, you’re protecting those who are more vulnerable to severe flu complications, such as older adults, young children, and people with chronic health conditions. 

So, you know it’s a good idea to roll up your sleeve and get the flu shot. But did you know there are actually several different types of flu shots? Here’s everything you need to know about your flu vaccine options, so you can decide which one to get this year. 

For everyone over 6 months old 

The most commonly available flu vaccines are the standard-dose trivalent vaccines (“trivalent” means they protect against three strains of the flu virus). These include: 

• Afluria®  
• Fluarix®  
• FluLaval®  
• Fluzone®  
• Flucelvax® 

These vaccines are suitable for most people and are designed to provide broad protection against the most common strains of influenza this flu season. 

For people over 18  

For adults, another option is Flublok®, a recombinant flu vaccine. This vaccine is made using a different process that doesn’t involve the influenza virus. It’s a great alternative for those who are 18 and older. 

For people 65 and older 

As we age, our immune systems tend to weaken, making it harder to fight off infections like the flu. That’s why it is recommended that people ages 65 and older receive one of three vaccines: 

• Flublok® Trivalent is a recombinant vaccine, which means it is made using bacterial or yeast cells. A small piece of DNA is taken from the flu virus and inserted into the manufacturing cells. 
• Fluzone® High-Dose Trivalent is a higher-dose vaccine that’s designed to give older adults a stronger immune response and better protection against the flu. 
• Fluad® Trivalent includes an adjuvant, a substance that helps boost the body’s immune response to the vaccine, making it more effective in older adults. 

Studies have shown that these three vaccines may provide better protection for older adults, who are at higher risk of serious flu complications. 

For kids over age 2 and adults up to age 49 

If you’re looking for a needle-free option, the flu nasal spray (FluMist® Trivalent) might be a good choice for you or your children. FluMist is approved for use in people between the ages of 2 and 49. It’s especially popular for children and those who are squeamish about needles. However, it’s important that you consult with your health care provider to ensure it’s the right option, as there are certain health conditions that may make it less effective at protecting you against the flu. 

Yearly shots may soon be a thing of the past 

For decades, flu shots have been made in the same way, using a process that dates to the 1940s. But that’s changing. Researchers are working on new types of flu vaccines that could offer better protection and possibly even eliminate the need for annual shots. 

The Department of Health and Human Services has invested $176 million to develop an mRNA-based influenza vaccine, similar to the COVID-19 vaccines, which could provide more robust protection. Meanwhile, the National Institutes of Health has begun clinical trials for universal flu vaccines that could protect against multiple strains of the flu virus, even if the virus changes. This vaccine could potentially be given less frequently and protect against more strains.   

But until these new vaccines become available, it’s still important to get your annual flu shot. It’s the best way to protect your health during flu season.   

Bottom line 

With so many options available, choosing the right flu shot might feel overwhelming. But there’s no need to stress. Most people are likely safe getting whichever vaccine is available at your doctor’s office or pharmacy. 

And while you’re there, consider getting vaccinated against COVID-19, too. You can receive both vaccinations during the same visit or separately. 

Talk to your health care provider about which flu vaccine is best for you. And remember, all flu vaccines protect against the same three strains of flu, so the most important thing is to get vaccinated.