As autumn settles in across northern China, a new influenza season is approaching. Many people assume the flu shot is the same every year — but for the 2026–2027 season, the Northern Hemisphere vaccine formula has been meaningfully updated, and some guidance on dosing and eligible age groups has also changed. Understanding what’s new this year is the first step to protecting yourself and your family.
Flu protection is a family project. Catch the September–November golden window.
Influenza is not “just a cold”
Influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. It often brings a high, persistent fever along with body aches, fatigue, sore throat and cough. For pregnant women, infants, older adults and people with chronic conditions, flu can trigger serious complications such as pneumonia or myocarditis — and in severe cases can be life-threatening.
A special note for families with babies: infants under 6 months old cannot yet receive the flu vaccine, yet they are at the highest risk of severe disease. Because flu spreads easily between household members, if one person is infected, the virus can quickly reach a vulnerable child — which is why vaccinating everyone else around the baby is so important.
The flu vaccine: your first line of defense
The influenza vaccine is the most effective way to prevent flu and its complications. While it does not protect against every strain, it contains the most common circulating viruses and protects most people. Getting vaccinated can:
- Significantly lower the risk of catching influenza;
- Reduce symptom severity and shorten the course of illness;
- Lower the risk of hospitalization or death from flu.
What’s new for the 2026–2027 season
According to data from the Centre for Health Protection, the recommended strains for this Northern Hemisphere season have all been updated. Even if you were vaccinated last year, you should be re-vaccinated this year. In addition, some imported flu vaccines now offer a 0.5 ml formulation suitable for all ages from 6 months and up.
Quick dosing tips:
- Babies 6–35 months: two doses, 4 weeks apart;
- Children 3+, adults and older adults: one dose per year.
Who should get the flu vaccine?
The vaccine is suitable for everyone aged 6 months and older (those with drug allergies should consult a physician first).
- Pregnant women: immunity changes during pregnancy and the risk of severe flu is higher. Inactivated flu vaccine is safe in pregnancy — protecting both mother and baby with passive antibodies.
- Allergic children: only a true allergy to a vaccine component is an absolute contraindication. Stay for observation for a full 30 minutes after vaccination.
- People with chronic disease: if your condition is stable and there are no contraindications, prior vaccination is recommended to avoid flu worsening underlying illness.
The best time to vaccinate
To ensure the best protection through the season, get vaccinated at least two weeks before the flu peak. In northern China, September through November is the recommended window.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Should pregnant women and infants be vaccinated?
Absolutely. Current data show vaccination during pregnancy does not increase adverse pregnancy outcomes and protects both mother and baby. Babies under six months cannot be vaccinated themselves — so vaccinating all eligible family members is the key way to shield them.
Q: Do I need it every year?
Yes. The circulating strains update each year (the 2026–2027 strains are revised), and antibody protection naturally wanes — so an annual shot is advised.
Q: Is the flu vaccine safe?
Yes. It is rigorously tested and regulated. Mild, temporary side effects such as soreness at the injection site or a low-grade fever may occur.
This season’s flu vaccine is expected to arrive in September. For appointment details and the vaccination process, please follow our upcoming official account updates. Beyond the shot, daily hand-washing, ventilation and mask use in crowded places help keep your family healthy through the winter.
Small hands held tight, safe in our care — Tianjin United Family Hospital Pediatrics.
Expert contributors
Dr. Fu Hongna — Chief Physician
Director of Pediatrics, Tianjin United Family Hospital. Specializes in common pediatric conditions, childhood allergies, pediatric digestive disease and child nutrition & development. Graduated from Tianjin Medical University (2001); joined Tianjin UFH as Pediatrics Director in 2012; completed a fellowship in pediatric immunology & allergy at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (2013).
Pharmacist Ding Pinlei — Associate Chief Pharmacist
Specializes in rational medication for children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and chronic-disease drug management. Advises on safe medication use, antimicrobial stewardship and hospital pharmacy practice.
Questions about flu vaccination or care at UFH Tianjin? Speak with our international team, or explore the Tianjin campus.