When should I get my flu shot in Idaho? Can I get COVID vaccine at the same time?
Fall is approaching and that means another season is on its way, too: flu season.
While it’s possible to become sick with the flu at any time, flu activity typically ramps up in fall and winter in this part of the world, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said.
Here’s what you need to know about the contagious respiratory illness, its symptoms, and steps you can take to protect yourself and others heading into flu season:
What is the flu and what are its symptoms?
Influenza, or flu, is caused by flu viruses, according to the CDC.
“Most experts believe that flu viruses spread mainly by tiny droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze, or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby,” the CDC said, adding that people also can get sick after touching a contaminated surface “and then touching their own mouth, nose or possibly their eyes.”
While anyone can become infected with the flu, certain groups have a greater risk for serious complications, including young kids, seniors, people who are pregnant and people with health conditions such as asthma and chronic lung disease, among others, the CDC said.
Flu symptoms can include aches, cough, fatigue, fever, headache, sore throat and a stuffy or runny nose, according to the CDC. Vomiting and diarrhea are also sometimes symptoms, although “this is more common in children than adults,” per the agency.
Who should get a flu shot?
Health officials recommend that most people 6 months and older get a flu vaccine each year.
“Flu vaccine has been shown to reduce flu-related illnesses and the risk of serious flu complications that can result in hospitalization or even death,” per the CDC.
In Boise, flu shots are available at health provider offices, pharmacies and through Central District Health, the area’s public health district. Some employers also hold flu shot clinics.
Flu shots for adults are covered by most health insurance plans, and flu shots for kids are provided at no cost in Idaho through the Vaccines for Children program, the district said in an e-mail to the Idaho Statesman.
Along with getting a flu vaccine, steps for staying healthy and protecting others from flu include: avoiding being close to sick people, staying at home when you’re sick, washing your hands, covering sneezes and coughs, and trying not to touch your mouth, nose or eyes, per the CDC.
When should I get a flu shot? Is September too early?
Flu season typically kicks off in October, per health experts, and “most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February,” according to the CDC.
So, when should you get your flu shot?
Central District Health said September isn’t too early — and others agree.
“For most people who need only one dose of influenza vaccine for the season, September and October are generally good times to be vaccinated against influenza. Ideally, everyone should be vaccinated by the end of October,” according to the CDC.
The New York Times reported that “the ideal window is from late September through October,” citing experts.
It takes about two weeks for the flu shot to offer full protection.
Is it OK to get a COVID-19 vaccination and flu shot at the same time?
Getting an updated COVID-19 vaccination has become more complicated for some this year amid federal policy changes and conflicting guidance, The Kansas City Star reported.
But if you’re planning to get both an updated COVID-19 vaccination and a flu shot this year, you don’t need to spread them out. It’s OK to get them at the same time, Central District Health said.
This story was originally published September 11, 2025 at 9:50 AM.
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