Flu season may still be a few months away, but McCook’s Pharmacy is already helping local residents prepare.

The pharmacy recently received its supply of flu vaccines formulated for the 2026–27 season. McCook’s is offering FLUAD, an adjuvanted vaccine for adults 65 and older, and Flucelvax for patients ages 13 and older.

FLUAD contains an ingredient designed to help produce a stronger immune response and is among the vaccines recommended for older adults who face a greater risk of serious complications from the flu. Flucelvax is a cell-based vaccine available for teens and adults.

Because circulating influenza viruses change, flu vaccines are updated each year. All three virus components in the 2026–27 vaccines were changed from the previous season to target the strains expected to circulate during the coming months.

Although the vaccines have arrived, getting vaccinated as early as possible is not necessarily best for everyone. Age, health conditions, pregnancy, travel plans and other circumstances may affect when a patient should receive the vaccine. For most, particularly adults 65 and older, September and October are generally the preferred months, as waiting until early fall can help ensure protection lasts through the height of flu season. It takes about two weeks for the body to develop protection after vaccination.

Getting vaccinated remains the best way to reduce the risk of contracting the flu and developing serious complications.

“While there’s no guarantee a vaccine will prevent you coming down with the flu, it still gives you the best chance to avoid getting sick if you come in contact with the flu virus,” pharmacist and pharmacy owner Len McCook said.

Basic preventive measures also remain important. Washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick can help limit the spread of influenza and other respiratory illnesses.

No appointment is needed to receive a flu shot at McCook’s, and walk-ins are welcome.

“If you need a flu shot, come see us,” McCook said. “But flu season is about to really get started … so even if you don’t receive the vaccine from us, get a shot this season.”

Established in 2005 by pharmacists Len and Janie McCook, McCook’s is a locally owned and operated full-service pharmacy offering convenient drive-through service and citywide delivery. The pharmacy is located at 23630 Highway 80 East in Statesboro and is open from 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Saturday.

For more information about flu vaccines or help deciding when to get vaccinated, call McCook’s Pharmacy at (912) 764-2223 or visit www.mccookspharmacy.com.