It’s Time to Think About Your Flu Shot

Why Should I Get a Vaccine?

Getting your flu vaccine is an important step in your preventive care. Each year millions of people contract the flu, and thousands are hospitalized as a result.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is believed that flu virus and the virus that causes COVID-19 will both simultaneously be spreading this fall and winter. Therefore, an individual could potentially contract both viruses at the same time, putting your life in even more danger.

Every year different flu strains circulate, so even if you received your flu vaccine last year, you’ll still need to get another vaccine this season. If you are pregnant, suffer from a chronic condition or are 65 years or older, you are at a greater risk for flu- related complications that can lead to hospitalization.

The quadrivalent (four-strain) flu vaccine is approved for people ages 6 months to 64 years old, while the trivalent (three-strain) flu vaccine is approved for people 65 years and older.

Flu vaccinations are part of your preventive care coverage and your plan pays 100%. That means you pay nothing for this service.

Where Should I Go to Get a Flu Vaccine?

In the midst of COVID-19, you may have been avoiding your doctor’s office in an effort to socially distance. But getting your preventive care still needs to remain a priority. Contact your provider’s office to see what their COVID-19 protocol is and to schedule a time to get your flu vaccine.

If you’re concerned about going to your doctor’s office, a pharmacist can also administer flu vaccines at your local CVS or retail pharmacy. You can schedule a flu shot appointment at CVS Pharmacy.