Where To Get A Flu Shot
Most Blue Shield of California and Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan members can get their flu shot at no extra cost as part of their preventive care benefits.
Some members may have to pay a low out-of-pocket cost for the shot. This applies to:
- Some pre-Affordable Care Act or grandfathered plans
- Some employer-sponsored, self-funded, or administrative services only plans
To check how much a flu shot may cost, please log in to your account. You can view your preventive care benefits by clicking Benefits under the myblueshield tab.
You can get an updated COVID-19 booster when you get the flu shot. Check if your location also offers COVID-19 boosters.
Can I Get More Than One Vaccine During The Same Visit
If you need more than one vaccine, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about whether you should get them all in one visit, or space them out.
Its very common to bundle immunizations for children, and there are many cases where adults may get two vaccines at the same time.
Shingrix, which is recommended to prevent shingles in adults 50 and older, can be given during the same appointment as a flu shot, according to the CDC.
The agency has also given the green light for people to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, including a booster shot , and the flu shot during the same visit.
In fact, the CDC says that the COVID-19 vaccine can be given without regard to the timing of any other vaccine.
How Much Is A Minuteclinic Visit For Flu Shots At 7259 Pearl Road Middleburg Heights Oh With And Without Insurance
Flu Shots at MinuteClinic typically costs $50-$74, while all MinuteClinic® prices in Middleburg Heights range anywhere from $35 to $250 depending on the service. Please visit our service price list and insurance information page to see detailed pricing and insurance breakdowns. At CVS MinuteClinic®, most insurance plans are accepted. We recommend contacting your insurance company prior to your visit to be sure that the service you are seeking will be covered. How much you will have to pay out of pocket will depend on your insurance coverage. If you do not have insurance or prefer to pay out of pocket, you may pay with cash, card, or check. Prices may vary depending on the complexity of the case. Lab tests and additional services may result in additional charges.
Cant make it in for a visit? We also have Video Visits, which enable you to see one of our health care professionals from the comfort of your own home as an alternative for just $59 per visit. Currently, a Video Visit is not covered by insurance and is not required to get treatment.
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Is It Safe To Get Vaccinated At A Drug Store
Drug stores are an excellent place to be vaccinated, Schaffner says.
Today, pharmacists are well-trained in vaccines and their indications, as well as safety protocols and inoculation technique, he explains.
In the era of COVID-19, pharmacies are also taking extra safety precautions: People coming in to be vaccinated are required to answer COVID-19 screening questions, wear masks, and maintain physical distancing at immunization sites, while pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and nurse practitioners administering vaccines must wear masks and gloves.
Are There Side Effects
Most people dont develop side effects from the shingles vaccine, but some can occur. The vaccine is injected into your arm, so pain and soreness at the injection site are common.
The FDA also issued a warning in 2021 that there may an association between receiving the vaccine and developing Guillain-Barré Syndrome , though the relationship is poorly understood and more research is needed.
GBS is a rare condition in which your bodys immune system attacks part of the nervous system.
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How Long Does The Flu Shot Last & Why Do I Need It Every Year
A flu vaccine is needed every year for two reasons. First, a persons immune protection from vaccination declines over time, so an annual flu vaccine is needed for optimal protection.
Second, because flu viruses are constantly changing, the composition of flu vaccines is reviewed annually and are updated to protect against the viruses that research indicates will be most common during the upcoming flu season.
For the best protection, everyone 6 months and older should get vaccinated annually.
Get the facts about the flu
Is There A Difference Between The Flu Vaccine That I Get At My Doctor’s Office Vs Cvs Pharmacy
Manufacturers create over 156 million flu vaccine doses per season and distribute them across the U.S. Manufacturers send the same vaccine to pharmacies and other vaccine providers . However, all types of vaccinations might not be available at all CVS Pharmacy locations.
Flu shots available when immunizing pharmacist or MinuteClinic health care provider is on duty, while supplies last. Age restrictions apply. Eligible patients will not pay any co-payments unless otherwise required by their plan, including Medicare Part B.
This information should be used for general education purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Neither CVS Pharmacy, Inc., its subsidiaries or affiliates, nor any other party assumes liability for loss or damage due to reliance on this information.
Flu shots available when immunizing pharmacist or MinuteClinic health care provider is on duty, while supplies last. Age restrictions apply. Eligible patients will not pay any co-payments unless otherwise required by their plan, including Medicare Part B.
This information should be used for general education purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Neither CVS Pharmacy, Inc., its subsidiaries or affiliates, nor any other party assumes liability for loss or damage due to reliance on this information.
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What Is The Shingles Vaccine
Shingrix is a vaccine that contains an inactive form of the herpes zoster virus. It helps you develop an immunity to the active virus.
Adults receive the vaccine in two separate doses. Generally, healthy adults over age 50 get their second dose 2 to 6 months after the first dose. Immunocompromised adults may get the second dose sooner.
There is no maximum age for getting Shingrix.
Are Any Of The Available Flu Vaccines Recommended Over Others
Yes, for some people. For the 2022-2023 flu season, there are three flu vaccines that are preferentially recommended for people 65 years and older. These are Fluzone High-DoseQuadrivalent vaccine, Flublok Quadrivalent recombinant flu vaccine and Fluad Quadrivalent adjuvanted flu vaccine. This recommendation was based on a review of available studies which suggests that, in this age group, these vaccines are potentially more effective than standard dose unadjuvanted flu vaccines. There is no preferential recommendation for people younger than 65 years.
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Can I Get A Flu Shot If Im Pregnant Diabetic Or Have Chronic Illnesses
Its especially important for certain people to get vaccinated, such as those who are at high risk of developing serious complications like pneumonia if they get sick with the flu. This includes:
- People who have certain medical conditions including asthma, weakened immune systems, diabetes and chronic heart or lung disease
- People ages 65& plus
- People who live with or care for others who are at high risk for developing serious complications.
The flu can be a serious disease. Any flu infection can carry a risk of serious complications, hospitalization or death, even among otherwise healthy individuals.
Our dedicated pharmacists are here for you if you have any questions related to receiving vaccinations.
Get the facts about the flu
Where Can I Go To Get Vaccinations
Vaccines are offered at drugstore chains, including CVS, Rite Aid, and Walgreens warehouse clubs like Costco and Sams Club and many independent pharmacies.
The Federal Retail Pharmacy Program for COVID-19 Vaccination has 21 national pharmacy partners and independent pharmacy networks to help increase access to the vaccine. A list of the partners can be found on the CDC website.
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What Should I Do If I Get Sick
There are several products available to treat flu symptoms. Prescription medications can help lessen fever and flu symptoms, shorten the length of flu illness, and reduce the risk of complications. It is best if they are taken within 2 days of the start of flu symptoms. The four FDA approved prescription medications for the treatment of flu are oseltamivir phosphate , zanamivir , peramivir , and baloxavir marboxil .
OTC medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen can be used to treat fever, headache, body aches, and sore throat. Products containing dextromethorphan and/or guaifenesin are helpful for cough. Runny/stuffy nose symptoms can be treated with an antihistamine and/or decongestant.
Be sure to always read the product label to understand the active ingredient, uses, warnings, doses, and directions. For questions and help with product selection, talk to your Rite Aid pharmacist or other healthcare professional.
* Flu shots available while supplies last. Ask your pharmacist for details. Age restrictions apply in some states.
Flu shots are no cost with insurance after satisfaction of any applicable deductible or through a government program for the uninsured.
Vaccine coupon disclaimer:
COVID-19 coupon disclaimer:
What Are The Side Effects Of The Flu Vaccine
Common side effects of the flu vaccine include: soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site, fever, headache, nausea, and muscle aches.
Less common side effects may include: fainting, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and allergic reactions .
Egg Allergy: Since eggs are used in the production of some flu vaccines, those with a life-threatening egg allergy should only receive a flu shot in a medical facility that is prepared to handle a severe allergic reaction . Those who have experienced only hives from a flu shot may still receive the vaccine.
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What If A Dose Is Given Too Early
What should a provider do if a dose was inadvertently given at too young an age or at less than the minimum interval? The dose is not considered valid and must be repeated. The repeat dose should be spaced after the invalid dose by an interval at least equal to the recommended minimum interval. In these cases, providers should be prepared to reassure parents that the extra dose of vaccine is not harmful for their child.
In short, rigorously adhering to minimum ages and intervals is vital to making certain your patients receive vaccines on a schedule that ensures vaccine effectiveness. For more information about minimum intervals and ages, consult the ACIP’s General Recommendations on Immunization.
Special Consideration Regarding Egg Allergy
People with egg allergies can receive any licensed, recommended age-appropriate influenza vaccine that is otherwise appropriate. People who have a history of severe egg allergy should be vaccinated in a medical setting, supervised by a health care provider who is able to recognize and manage severe allergic reactions. Two completely egg-free flu vaccine options are available: Flublok Quadrivalent recombinant flu vaccine and Flucelvax Quadrivalent cell-based flu shot.
It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against flu to develop in the body.
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When Should I Get Vaccinated Against Flu
For most people who need only one dose of flu vaccine for the season, September and October are generally good times to be vaccinated against flu. Ideally, everyone should be vaccinated by the end of October. Additional considerations concerning the timing of vaccination for certain groups of people include:
- Most adults, especially those 65 years and older, and pregnant people in the first or second trimester should generally not get vaccinated early because protection may decrease over time. However, early vaccination can be considered for any person who is unable to return at a later time to be vaccinated.
- Some children need two doses of flu vaccine. For those children it is recommended to get the first dose as soon as vaccine is available, because the second dose needs to be given at least four weeks after the first. Vaccination during July and August also can be considered for children who need only one dose.
- Vaccination during July and August also can be considered for people who are in the third trimester of pregnancy during those months, because this can help protect their infants for the first few months after birth .
Minimum Intervals How To Use Them
In contrast, maintaining minimum intervals between vaccine doses is critically important. When doses are given too close together, the body may have insufficient time to mount an immune response, and the vaccine’s efficacy cannot be assured. Even though doses given at the minimum intervals are considered valid, it is preferable to maintain the longer recommended interval whenever possible, with a few exceptions. You should intentionally schedule patients at the minimum intervals only in certain circumstances:
- When catching up a child who starts his/her immunizations late or is more than one month behind schedule
- When a patient is scheduled to travel internationally
- You also might choose to seize the opportunity and give vaccines at the minimum intervals when a patient who is in the office is unlikely to return for recommended visits.
CDC has developed a great table generally referred to as Table 1 of the ACIP’s General Recommendations to help you determine the minimum ages and intervals for all routinely recommended vaccines.
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Can The Flu Shot Make Me Sick
No, flu vaccines cannot cause flu illness. Some people report having mild side effects after flu vaccination, such as:
- Low-grade fever
- Arm pain at the injection site
To help ease the pain and avoid the symptoms, you can take a pain reliever like Tylenol or Ibuprofen for muscle aches, headaches and a low-grade fever.
For arm pain, apply a cool compress and keep your arm moving after the shot.
Get the facts about the flu
Who Should Not Receive A Flu Shot:
Different influenza vaccines are approved for use in people in different age groups. In addition, some vaccines are not recommended for certain groups of people. Factors that can determine a persons suitability for vaccination, or vaccination with a particular vaccine, include a persons age, health and any allergies to flu vaccine or its components. More information is available at Who Should and Who Should NOT get a Flu Vaccine.
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Can I Get A Flu Shot And Covid
Yes, you can get a COVID-19 vaccine and a flu vaccine at the same time, per CDC recommendation.
There are other vaccines you can receive with the flu shot, as well including shingles, pneumonia, whooping cough, and others. Your pharmacist can help you decide what is best for you.
Save a trip and schedule multiple vaccines for one appointment.
What Are The Different Types Of Flu Vaccines
There are several different types of flu vaccines available. Rite Aid offers the following flu vaccines:
Quadrivalent flu vaccine – this vaccine protects against two Influenza A strains and two Influenza B strains.
For those 65 years of age and older, there are two types of flu vaccines that are designed to provide a greater immune response.
- High-dose flu vaccine – this vaccine contains four times more antigen than standard dose flu vaccines.
- Adjuvanted flu vaccine – this vaccine contains an ingredient that provides a stronger immune response.
Ask your Rite Aid pharmacist which vaccine is right for you.
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Who Should Get A Flu Vaccine
Everyone 6 months and older should receive a yearly flu vaccine, with rare exceptions. The flu vaccine causes your body to make antibodies that fight the flu, decreasing your risk of becoming sick with the flu. Since the viruses in the vaccine are not live, they cannot cause the flu. The flu vaccine is recommended annually, as immunity decreases over time. It takes about two weeks for the vaccine to be effective, so it is important to get the vaccine before the flu starts spreading in your area.
Cvs Pharmacy Kicks Off Senior Days Offering Flu Shots
CVS Pharmacy is set to host a series of Senior Days to give people over age 55 years old quick and easy access to the annual flu vaccine.
The Senior Days, which will be held every Thursday throughout the month of September, will be held at 20 CVS HealthHUB locations in the Tampa-area. During Senior Days, patients will be greeted by pharmacy staff, have access to educational information and receive their vaccination from a dedicated immunizer.
Getting an annual flu shot, along with other important vaccines, such as COVID-19, shingles and pneumonia, if eligible, is important for avoiding illness and protecting the overall health of the community, especially for seniors who are at greater risk of developing severe flu-related illnesses, the company said.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is recommending that people over age 65 years old receive either the higher dose or adjuvanted flu vaccine, both of which help the body elicit a better immune response to the vaccine. CVS Pharmacy is offering both the high dose and adjuvanted flu vaccines this season and will have both types of vaccine available during the Senior Day events.
While patients can always schedule an immunization appointment ahead of time online or via the CVS Pharmacy app, during Senior Days, patients over age 55 years old are able to simply walk in and request a flu vaccination.
The events will be held every Thursday in September.
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Doctors Offices Or Hospitals
All Blue Shield and Blue Shield Promise members can get their flu shot from their primary doctor .
You may need to call ahead of time to set up an appointment at your primary doctors office. Or you can ask to have the shot during your next visit. Your local hospital or community clinic may also be offering flu shots.