Tired of Your Old Ink? Consider Laser Tattoo Removal
If you’ve got a tattoo but you’ve grown tired of the look, you’re in luck — laser tattoo removal can help you get rid of the ink safely and completely. Read more about what’s involved here.
Is It Too Early to Get My Flu Shot?
Every year, as autumn approaches, we start thinking about protecting ourselves from seasonal illnesses. But timing your annual vaccination is just as important as getting it in the first place. If you get vaccinated too early, your body’s immunity might fade before flu season even peaks in our community.
At Associates in Family Medicine in San Diego, California, Dr. Michelle Hamidi and our dedicated team are here to help you navigate the upcoming cold and flu season. We make it easy to get your annual flu shot so you can protect yourself and your loved ones from preventable illness.
Why timing your flu shot matters
It’s a common myth that getting your vaccine as soon as it hits pharmacy shelves in July or August is the best strategy. In reality, vaccinating too early can leave you vulnerable later in the season, when the virus is most active. According to Harvard Medical School, October is the optimal month to get your flu shot because it ensures your immunity lasts through the peak flu season in winter.
Getting vaccinated is highly effective at preventing severe illness, reducing hospitalizations, and saving lives. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2026) estimates that flu vaccination prevented 10 million illnesses and 12,000 deaths during the 2024-2025 season.
Who needs a flu shot, and when?
We recommend that everyone six months and older get vaccinated every year to protect themselves and the community. However, certain groups need to pay extra attention to their timing and the specific type of vaccine they receive. For example, older adults often experience a faster decline in immunity as the months go on.
If you are caring for seniors or are over 65 yourself, keep in mind that you may need a different formulation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended high-dose or adjuvanted flu vaccines for people 65 and older to ensure a stronger, more lasting immune response.
Schedule your visit today
You don’t have to guess about the right time to protect your family from seasonal illness. Our experienced medical team is ready to help you time your vaccine perfectly so you stay safe and healthy all winter long.
Don’t wait until the flu starts spreading in your neighborhood to take action. Call or message our office today to schedule your annual flu shot with our compassionate team.
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