While vaccine supplies are expected to be sufficient this season, future flu seasons might face challenges due to canceled funding for mRNA flu vaccines, including combined flu and COVID shots, and currently, no mRNA flu vaccines are approved.

High-risk groups such as young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic conditions are especially encouraged to get vaccinated.

The CDC recommends that everyone aged 6 months and older receive the flu vaccine, a guideline consistent with previous years.

The primary goal of the flu shot is to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death, rather than providing complete protection against all circulating strains.

The optimal time to get vaccinated against the flu is during September, October, or early November to ensure protection during the peak flu season, which usually occurs in February.

This year's flu vaccine targets two influenza A strains and one influenza B strain, with a particular focus on the A/H3N2 strain, although other strains may still appear.

The 2025 flu shot is now available and widely recommended for most Americans, with endorsement from Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who based his support on advice from a vaccine advisory board he appointed.