Is it Still Worth Getting a Flu Shot in the Middle of the Season?

As spring approaches and flu seasons show signs of slowing down, many are wondering if it's too late to get vaccinated. According to experts, the answer is a resounding "yes." Despite a significant increase in early cases, the flu season may extend beyond October, and getting vaccinated in August can still make a real difference in protecting both you and those around you from serious illness.

Key Takeaways:

Flu season started early and could end late, making it worth getting vaccinated even in August.
Influenza A has been the dominant strain across all age groups, with laboratory-confirmed cases 60% higher than the same period in 2024.
Getting vaccinated in August can provide protection against 4 strains of the flu, including the dominant strain, influenza A.
Natural infection offers some immunity, but it is generally less reliable and narrower than vaccination, especially for older people.
Pregnant women and international travelers can benefit from vaccination at any time of year.
Flu vaccines are effective in reducing the risk of negative health outcomes, such as hospitalization, for high-risk groups.

Statistics:

Flu seasons typically decline after July, but the number of laboratory-confirmed cases of flu shows the virus still circulates outside the typical flu season.
Influenza A has been the dominant strain, with laboratory-confirmed cases between January and March 2025 being almost 60% higher than the same period in 2024.
The effectiveness of flu vaccines varies year to year, but this season, the match appears excellent (for key strains).
The vaccine doesn't completely protect against infection ( ), but it does reduce the risk of negative health outcomes.

Sources:

Adrian Esterman, receipt of funding from NHMRC, ARC, and MRFF
The Conversation Media Group Ltd ( )