Flu shots at Healthy Connections are available for the 2026–2027 season, and now is a good time to make your pit stop. Fall reaches full speed quickly as school, work, sports, travel, and family plans compete for room on the calendar. Getting your flu shot now can help you stay ahead before the holidays pick up speed.
The quick answer: For most people, September and October are good times to get vaccinated. A flu shot can reduce your risk of illness and may make the illness less severe if you still get sick. Call Healthy Connections at 888-710-8220 for information or an appointment.
When to get flu shots at Healthy Connections
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says September and October are generally good times for most people who need one dose. Vaccination can still be beneficial later while flu viruses are circulating and the vaccine is available.
It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop antibodies that provide protection. Getting your flu shot before your calendar is packed gives your body time to prepare for the road ahead.
Some children ages 6 months through 8 years need two doses at least four weeks apart. Your child’s provider can determine what is needed.
This season’s vaccine is ready for a new course
Flu viruses change, and the vaccine is updated to keep pace. According to the CDC’s 2026–2027 flu-season information, all three virus components in this season’s United States flu vaccines were updated from the previous season.
No flu vaccine provides complete protection. Even so, vaccination can reduce flu illness, medical visits and hospitalizations. It may also reduce illness severity. Think of it as giving your immune system a head start before flu season moves into high gear.
Who should move a flu shot up the list?
Current CDC guidance recommends annual flu vaccination for people 6 months and older, with rare exceptions. It is especially important for people at higher risk of serious flu complications, including many:
- Young children
- Adults age 50 and older
- Pregnant women
- People with asthma, diabetes, heart disease or certain other ongoing conditions
- People with weakened immune systems
- People who live with or care for someone at higher risk
Adults age 65 and older should ask about vaccine options recommended for their age group. Patients with questions should talk with a healthcare provider about their individual needs.
Make your pit stop count
A flu-shot visit can be an opportunity to check more than one item off your healthcare list. If you need a medication follow-up, preventive screening or primary-care visit, ask whether those needs can be addressed during the same appointment.
Depending on your health plan, a flu-shot visit may satisfy an annual healthcare visit requirement or qualify for a wellness benefit. Requirements vary, and a flu-shot visit is not automatically the same as an annual physical or Medicare Annual Wellness Visit. Check with your health plan or benefits administrator for details.
Why make Healthy Connections your flu-shot stop?
Healthy Connections has cared for Arkansas communities for more than 25 years. Our patients can receive care from local teams who understand their communities and are available to help with questions about vaccines, medical history and preventive care.
Choosing flu shots at Healthy Connections can connect you with a local healthcare team ready to care for you beyond flu season and help you establish an ongoing medical home.
Healthy Connections accepts Medicaid, Medicare, ARKids 1st and most major insurance plans. A sliding-fee scale is available to patients who qualify. Services and availability vary by location.
Questions about flu shots at Healthy Connections
Can I still get the flu after vaccination?
Yes. Protection is not complete and varies by season and by person. However, vaccination can lower the risk of flu illness and may reduce its severity.
Is it too late after October?
No. Vaccination can still provide a benefit later in the season while flu viruses are circulating and vaccine remains available.
What if I have questions or concerns?
Bring them with you. A Healthy Connections provider can review your health history, explain your options and help you make an informed decision.
Ready to make your pit stop?
One planned stop now can help keep an important healthcare need from getting lost in a busy fall schedule. Use the Healthy Connections location directory to find a clinic near you.
Flu shots at Healthy Connections are available now. Stay on track this flu season by calling 888-710-8220 for information or an appointment.