As the 2025–2026 flu season approaches, health experts are urging everyone 6 months and older to get vaccinated. The CDC recommends scheduling flu shots in September or October so your immune system has time to build protection before flu activity peaks in late fall and winter.
Affordable and free options are available nationwide, from major pharmacy chains to community health events, making it easier than ever to get protected. In Sussex County, Delaware, both Beebe Healthcare and Bayhealth are hosting multiple walk-in flu clinics through November.
Why This Year’s Flu Shot Matters
Seasonal flu vaccination is the single best way to lower your risk of illness, hospital stays, and flu-related complications. All U.S. flu shots this year are trivalent, designed to match the three most common viruses expected to circulate:
- A(H1N1)
- A(H3N2)
- B/Victoria lineage
By getting vaccinated, you not only protect yourself but also help shield infants, older adults, and people with chronic conditions from serious outcomes.
Who Should Get Vaccinated
The CDC and Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommend annual flu vaccination for:
- Everyone 6 months and older (unless medically contraindicated)
- Children 6 months–8 years who have not previously received two doses, they will need two doses this season, given at least four weeks apart
- Adults 65+, who benefit most from high-dose or adjuvanted vaccines
- Pregnant individuals, who are advised to get vaccinated in early fall for best protection
The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly recommends flu shots for all children over 6 months, using any age-appropriate licensed vaccine.
When to Get Your Flu Shot
Most people should aim to get vaccinated in September or October to ensure immunity lasts through peak flu season.
- Children needing two doses should start as soon as vaccine is available so they are fully protected before flu activity spikes.
- Older adults (65+) and pregnant people are encouraged to wait until early fall (rather than mid-summer) to avoid waning immunity before late-season surges.
If you miss the early fall window, it’s still worthwhile to get vaccinated later, protection is valuable as long as flu is circulating.
Vaccine Options for 2025–2026
This season’s flu shots are all trivalent, with options including:
- Inactivated (IIV) – standard flu shot used in most clinics and pharmacies
- Cell-based (ccIIV) – egg-free production, available for people with certain allergies
- Recombinant (RIV) – now approved for ages 9+ (Flublok)
- Live attenuated nasal spray (LAIV) – now cleared for self- or caregiver administration, making it easier for families
Finding a Flu Shot Near You
- Vaccines.gov offers a nationwide locator, search by ZIP code and filter by vaccine type
- Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid, and Walmart offer walk-in and scheduled appointments (often at $0 copay for insured patients)
- Local health departments and hospitals frequently run free or low-cost events
Free Clinics in Sussex County (DE)
Beebe Healthcare:
- Hosting free adult flu shot events at multiple community sites through early November
- Walk-ins welcome; Cape Pharmacy in Lewes also supports no-appointment vaccinations
Bayhealth:
- Offering free, standard-dose flu shots for adults at libraries and other community venues in Milford, Rehoboth Beach, and surrounding areas this October and November
What to Bring and What to Expect
- Photo ID & insurance card (if available) – many sites bill insurance so patients pay nothing
- Uninsured patients are welcome at most community events, check event details for requirements
- Vaccines are usually given by trained pharmacists or licensed technicians; wait times are often minimal
Safety and Side Effects
Flu shots have an excellent safety record. The most common reactions are mild and temporary:
- Soreness or redness at the injection site
- Mild fatigue
- Low-grade fever
Serious adverse reactions are very rare. People with severe egg allergies or prior vaccine reactions should consult a doctor about which product is safest.
Key Takeaways for 2025–2026
- Timing matters: September or October is best, but late vaccination is still beneficial
- More choices: Expanded approval for recombinant vaccines and at-home nasal spray options
- Wider access: Free and low-cost clinics plus nationwide pharmacy coverage make it easy to get protected
Quick Tips for “Flu Shots Near Me”
- Search Vaccines.gov by ZIP code
- Filter by preferred vaccine type (standard, high-dose, egg-free, nasal spray)
- Call ahead to confirm stock and walk-in availability
- Check hospital websites or local news for free clinic schedules
