How Vaccines Work: Should I Get the Flu and COVID Vaccines in 2026?

This blog post, written in 2025, is based on the episode of First Line from October 2022. Some details have been updated.

Vaccines have long been a cornerstone of public health, saving millions of lives each year by preventing the spread of infectious diseases. As we head into flu season and with updated COVID boosters now available, it's essential to understand how vaccines work and why they are critical to protecting individual and community health.

The Basics of Vaccines

Vaccines stimulate your immune system to produce antibodies against specific viruses or bacteria, training your body to recognize and fight them off.

Here’s how different types of vaccines work:

Inactivated Vaccines

These use a killed version of the virus or bacteria, ensuring no chance of disease. Examples include the flu shot and rabies vaccine.

Live Attenuated Vaccines

These contain a weakened version of the virus or bacteria, providing longer-lasting immunity. However, they are not recommended for individuals with compromised immune systems.

Toxoid Vaccines

These target the toxins produced by bacteria rather than the bacteria itself, such as the tetanus vaccine.

Subunit and Recombinant Vaccines

These use a fragment of the virus or bacteria, like its protein or polysaccharide capsule. Examples include the Hepatitis B and Hib vaccines.

mRNA Vaccines

A breakthrough in vaccine technology, mRNA vaccines like the Pfizer and Moderna COVID vaccines use genetic instructions to prompt cells to produce a harmless viral protein, triggering an immune response.

Why You Should Get the Flu Vaccine in 2026

The flu vaccine is recommended annually for everyone over six months old. Here’s why:

Protection for Vulnerable Populations

While healthy individuals may recover from the flu without severe complications, those over 65, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions are at higher risk of severe illness, hospitalization, or even death.

Preventing Complications

The flu can lead to life-threatening complications like pneumonia, organ failure, and exacerbation of existing health conditions like asthma and heart disease.

Herd Immunity

By getting vaccinated, you help protect those who cannot get vaccinated or are more susceptible to severe outcomes.

Common Concerns About the Flu Vaccine

"I've Never Had the Flu Before."

Past flu-free years do not guarantee immunity. Each flu season introduces new strains, and exposure could happen at any time.

"I Still Got Sick After the Flu Shot."

While the vaccine isn’t 100% effective, it reduces the severity of illness and the likelihood of severe complications. Often, post-vaccine sickness is due to non-flu viruses, such as the common cold.

COVID Vaccines: Staying Protected

COVID-19 continues to evolve, making updated vaccines essential. COVID vaccines have been shown to significantly reduce the severity of illness, hospitalizations, and deaths. View current CDC guidelines for the most up-to-date recommendations throughout the 2026 season.

Conclusion

Vaccines are a safe and effective way to protect yourself and your community from serious diseases, including receiving the flu vaccine in 2026. Whether it’s the annual flu shot or an updated COVID booster, staying up to date with vaccinations is a simple yet powerful step in safeguarding public health.

For more detailed guidance, visit trusted resources like CDC.gov. Take charge of your health and protect those around you—talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated!