Is It Too Late to Get Your Flu and COVID Vaccines?

Is It Too Late to Get Your Flu and COVID Vaccines?

Late‑season vaccinations can still help protect you, your family, and our Moultrie County communities.

This winter has brought a noticeable rise in respiratory illnesses. Flu and COVID‑19 are circulating widely across Illinois and much of the country. There is still meaningful value in getting vaccinated now. Updated vaccines remain one of the most effective tools for reducing the risk of severe illness.

Choosing to get vaccinated now is a practical step to safeguard your health and support the well‑being of your loved ones and your community.

Why Getting Vaccinated Now Still Matters

Flu Doesn’t Follow a Set Schedule

Many people get their flu shot in early fall, but that isn’t a deadline. Flu season routinely stretches well into winter and sometimes early spring. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people who haven’t been vaccinated can still benefit from getting a flu shot later in the season.

COVID Protection Needs Updating

COVID‑19 continues to evolve and circulates year-round, peaking twice a year in the summer and winter. Unfortunately, personal immunity to COVID-19 fades over time. If it’s been a while since you were ill or vaccinated for COVID-19, an updated vaccine can help strengthen your protection against the virus.

Your Immune System Needs Time to Respond

Vaccines don’t work instantly. For example, it typically takes about 10–14 days for your body to build a strong immune response after a flu shot. That’s why “later” is still far better than “not at all.” Getting vaccinated now helps ensure you’re better protected against the flu and COVID-19, which continue to circulate.

Who Should Prioritize Vaccination?

Influenza

The CDC recommends a flu vaccine each season for everyone ages 6 months and older, with rare exceptions.

Vaccination against Influenza is especially important for people who are at higher risk of complications, including:

  1. Adults age 65 and older
  2. Pregnant or recently pregnant individuals
  3. People living with asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or other chronic conditions
  4. Those with compromised immune systems
  5. Caregivers for infants, older adults, or medically fragile family members.

COVID-19

Likewise, current CDC recommendations encourage the 2025–2026 COVID‑19 vaccine for everyone ages 6 months and older, based on shared decision-making with your healthcare provider.

Those at highest risk for infection or complications from COVID-19 illness include:

  1. Older adults – risk of severe illness and complications increases for individuals age 50 and over.
  2. Individuals with chronic health conditions – CDC provides a list of specific conditions
  3. Those with compromised immune systems
  4. Persons who live or work in certain environments, such as healthcare workers or residents of long-term care facilities

For both vaccines, consult with your healthcare provider if you have questions about your health and whether a vaccine is right for you.

Can You Get Both Vaccines at the Same Visit?

Yes. Many people can safely receive flu and COVID vaccines during the same appointment. If you have questions about what’s best for you or your child, your healthcare provider can offer personalized guidance based on age and vaccine history.

Common Misconceptions

Some people believe they don’t need vaccinations because they “never get sick” or because they’ve already had COVID or the flu. Past illness doesn’t guarantee future protection. Viruses change, immunity fades, and even healthy individuals can experience complications. Vaccines help reduce the risk of infection, severe illness, hospitalization, and other serious outcomes.

A Simple, Community‑Minded Choice

Getting vaccinated is more than a personal health decision; it’s a way to protect the people you see at work, church, school events, and family gatherings. A quick appointment now can help reduce the spread of illness and keep you, your loved ones, and our communities healthier through the rest of the season.

Where to Get Vaccinated in Moultrie County

Flu and COVID vaccines may be available through:

To schedule an appointment with the MCHD or check current vaccine availability, call (217) 728‑4114. For more information on immunizations and other services offered at the MCHD, visit our

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