Getting a flu shot can cut the risk of a doctor visit or hospitalization by 40% to 60%, according to Dr. Ken Bazydlo of Saint Elizabeth Medical Center in Edgewood.

Bazydlo told WCPO on Friday, Sept. 18, that residents should get vaccinated now, ahead of flu season.

"Now is a great time to get your vaccine because it'll help keep you protected throughout the winter," Bazydlo said.

Updated vaccine targets last year's dominant strain

All three virus components in U.S. flu vaccines were updated for the 2026-2027 season, according to Wentworth-Douglass Hospital's health blog. One change targets an influenza A(H3N2) strain that spread widely during the 2025-2026 season.

The CDC confirmed that seasonal flu vaccination recommendations from the July 2025 immunization schedule remain in effect for the current season. Multiple physician organizations, including the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), released 2026-2027 immunization recommendations on Sept. 3, according to CNN. Those groups recommend flu shots for everyone 6 months and older.

October is considered ideal timing, but September vaccinations are also recommended. It takes about two weeks after the shot to build antibodies.

The AAFP estimates flu vaccines reduce the risk of needing medical care by 30% to 60%, a range consistent with Bazydlo's figure.

The shot will not give you the flu

That is one of the most common myths. Bazydlo said the vaccine can trigger a mild immune response, including fatigue, but it will not cause the flu itself. He also said very few people have a medical reason to skip the shot, citing a prior anaphylactic reaction as one exception.

Where to get vaccinated locally

The Medical Village Pharmacy on Saint Elizabeth's Edgewood campus, at 20 Medical Village Dr., offers immunizations. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The phone number is (859) 301-9025.

St. Elizabeth Physicians Urgent Care locations also offer flu shots. Flu vaccinations at those urgent care sites cannot be provided to anyone 18 and under with Medicaid.