WLWT: Early flu vaccine availability has some wondering if it's too soon for a flu shot

UC infectious diseases expert says there is time for a flu shot

Jennifer Forrester, MD, associate professor of infectious diseases in the UC College of Medicine and UC Health physician, told WLWT that she appreciates the attention flu vaccines are suddenly getting from area residents.

“There is nothing particularly wrong or harmful in getting the flu vaccine now versus waiting,” Forrester told WLWT.

There is not a lot of flu virus floating around right now so waiting is still an option. The infectious diseases specialist says parents should get the flu shot when it works best for their family. "There’s nothing particularly now that you’re going to be protected against,” says Forrester. “But if you can get it now and it’s not going to be convenient for you in a month or two, then go ahead and get it now," she said.

Forrester said it's important for everyone to remember that it takes about two weeks once you get a flu shot for your body to produce all the antibodies needed for maximum protection.

Listen to the full interview with WLWT

Feature image of a women getting a flu shot courtesy of Unsplash.

Related Stories

1

Make Hoxworth Blood Center’s special holiday events part of your family celebrations this December

December 12, 2025

This December, Hoxworth Blood Center, University of Cincinnati, is inviting families across Greater Cincinnati to add something truly meaningful to their holiday traditions: giving the gift of life. With festive community events, beloved local partners and special thank-you gifts for donors, Hoxworth is making it easier, and more heartwarming than ever, to roll up your sleeves and help save lives close to home.

2

Ohio nurses weigh in on proposed federal loan rule

December 12, 2025

Spectrum News journalist Javari Burnett spoke with UC Dean Alicia Ribar and UC nursing students Megan Romero and Nevaeh Haskins about proposed new federal student loan rules. Romero and Haskins, both seniors, were filmed in the College of Nursing’s Simulation Lab.