Is now the time to get a flu shot? What experts say, and where to get yours in Charlotte

Flu season is coming, which means flu shots are now available in Charlotte and beyond to help keep you from getting sick.

While vaccination plays a critical part in defending yourself against the flu no matter when you get inoculated, experts say there are optimal times to get your shot in order to maximize your protection levels against the virus.

Here’s what to know about the best time to get your flu shot according to medical experts and where to get your vaccination in Charlotte:

What’s the best time to get your flu shot for 2022?

Now is the time to get your flu shot for the 2022-23 flu season, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says.

“For most people who need only one dose for the season, September and October are generally good times to get vaccinated,” the agency advises.

But if you can’t get vaccinated in that time period, that doesn’t mean you should skip your shot altogether.

“While ideally it’s recommended to get vaccinated by the end of October, it’s important to know that vaccination after October can still provide protection during the peak of flu season,” the CDC says.

When is flu season?

Flu season “usually occurs in the fall and winter” in the U.S., the CDC notes.

“While influenza viruses spread year-round, most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February,” the agency adds.

Where to get your flu shot in Charlotte

You can often schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor to get your flu shot.

If you don’t have a primary care doctor, keep an eye out for vaccine clinics held by urgent care offices, hospitals and local public health organizations.

Many pharmacy chains — including CVS, Harris Teeter, Walgreens and Walmart — also offer flu shot appointments and walk-in vaccine clinics.