All individuals should start getting their flu shots when they turn 6 months old. Remember that patients will need to get vaccinated every year unless their physician says otherwise.

The vaccine needs about two weeks to produce the antibodies that keep individuals healthy—most especially during the flu season.

There are three common types of flu shots, namely:

- Inactivated influenza vaccines (IIV) for children
- Recombinant influenza vaccines (RIV) for adults
- Adjuvanted and high-dose inactivated vaccines for older adults aged 65 and up

As pharmacists, it is your responsibility to encourage patients to get vaccinated, most especially if they have chronic health conditions. Pregnancy and old age shouldn’t discourage patients from getting their annual vaccinations.

Although vaccines are tried and tested by health experts, some people may develop severe allergies to certain ingredients found in vaccines. 

In this case, advise patients to visit their nearest hospital if they develop unusual symptoms.