Ideally, you should get your flu shot in September or October. However, even if you are not able to get vaccinated until November or later, vaccination is still recommended because flu most commonly peaks in February and significant activity can continue into May.

• Pregnant people in their third trimester and children who need only one dose can also be vaccinated earlier.
• Young children who need two doses should get the first one as soon as possible.

Flu shots are covered at NO-COST to Community First Members. In fact, all CDC-recommended child and adolescent immunizations are covered under your plan. 

Unsure if your child is up to date on their vaccines? Find a complete list of recommended immunizations for children and adolescents aged 18 years or younger.

Yes. Because flu viruses are constantly changing and mutating into different forms, AND because the vaccine’s protection declines over time, the best way to stay healthy is to receive a flu shot every year.

Flu viruses are constantly evolving, which is why the composition of U.S. flu vaccines is reviewed annually and updated as necessary to match the circulating strains.

 For the 2024-2025 season, all FDA-approved flu vaccines will be trivalent, providing protection against three different flu viruses. It’s essential for everyone 6 months and older to get a flu shot every year. You can read more from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at Trivalent Influenza Vaccines.

Almost everyone ages six months and up should get their flu shot, especially:

• Pregnant women
• Senior citizens over the age of 65
• Caregivers of the elderly and young children
• Health care workers
• Those with chronic health conditions like heart or lung disease, obesity, diabetes, and cancer

Babies under six months cannot receive the vaccine. If you have any concerns, always ask your doctor.

No, flu vaccines cannot cause flu illness. Flu vaccines given with a needle (i.e., flu shots) are made with either inactivated (killed) viruses, or with only a single protein from the flu virus.  The nasal spray vaccine contains live viruses that are weakened so that they will not cause illness.

The most common side effects from the flu shot are soreness, redness, tenderness, or swelling where the shot was given.

Flu is spread through droplets in the air (a sneeze or cough) or by touching a surface with the virus on it and then transferring it to your face. 

Wash your hands, avoid touching your face, mouth, or eyes, and stay home if you’re feeling sick. And get your flu shot today!

Stay home and avoid contact with other people. Flu symptoms include:

• Fever/Chills
• Body Aches
• Headache
• Dry Cough
• Sore or Dry Throat

You should call your doctor if your symptoms are severe or you are at high risk for flu complications due to any of these conditions: asthma or other lung problems; diabetes; weakened immune system; kidney disease; heart disease; liver disorder; neurological or neuromuscular disorders; pregnancy.

Questions? Call our 24-hour Nurse Advice Line at 1-800-434-2347.

Yes, you can get a flu vaccine with other recommended vaccines at the same visit if you are due. This might be more convenient than having two or three separate visits. Talk with your doctor about this option and learn more here.

People who have an egg allergy may receive any vaccine suitable for their age and health, regardless of whether it is egg-based or not.