Flu Season FAQs

• How much does a flu shot cost?

  Most insurance plans fully cover the cost of flu shots, making them free to most people. However, depending on where you get your flu vaccine, what type of vaccine you are getting, and whether or not you are insured, flu shot costs vary. According to GoodRx, flu shots can cost between $0 and $50, sometimes more.

• Can I get a free flu shot without insurance?

  Many state and local health departments, as well as free clinics across the country, offer low-cost or even free flu shots. This year, many are arranging COVID-19 and flu vaccines at the same time, in the same location, allowing the public greater access to vaccinations. In addition, many colleges provide free flu vaccines to their students, and veterans who get healthcare from the Department of Veterans Affairs can get a flu shot at a VA healthcare facility.

• How much does a flu shot cost without insurance?

  Without insurance, you could pay as much as $50 or more for a flu vaccine, however, there are many opportunities around the country for free flu shots from health departments, local colleges and universities, and other healthcare providers.

• When are flu shots going to be available?

  Each year, flu shots are generally released to healthcare providers by early September, although availability may be scarce early on. By the first of October, the flu vaccine should be commonly available at all participating providers.

• When should I get a flu shot?

  Each year is a little different, but flu season generally starts as early as September. Getting a flu shot early in the season - August to October - gives your body the best opportunity to build up immunity to the virus as it does take roughly two weeks for the vaccine to protect you against infection. Of course, if you are unable to get the flu shot early, getting a flu shot later still helps as the virus could last through May.

• Where should I get a flu shot?

  The flu vaccine should generally be available at urgent care centers, retail clinics, primary care doctor offices, and local pharmacies. While many times you can simply walk in to get a flu shot, it is best to book an appointment online to reduce your wait time.

• How can I book a flu shot appointment?

  Same-day and next day appointments for flu shots are bookable directly through Solv. Simply search for a flu shot provider near you, find a location, and book a time that aligns with your schedule stating “flu shot” as your reason for visit. Or, just click here to run a search for a nearby provider.

• Do I need both the COVID-19 vaccine and a flu shot?

  Yes. While there is evidence supporting that the flu vaccine may lower your risk of serious illness from COVID-19, the two vaccines are designed for different viruses and both are necessary. The good news is that many providers will offer both and you're able to receive both simultaneously.

• How long does the flu shot last?

  The flu vaccine lasts for one flu season as the virus constantly evolves and each year the vaccine is produced to specifically protect against the strand(s) that are prevalent in the upcoming flu season.

• How effective is the flu shot?

  Each year, the CDC and other organizations conduct studies to determine the effectiveness of the flu vaccine against that year’s flu virus. According to the CDC, recent studies show that flu vaccination reduces the risk of flu illness by about 40%. Of course, there are multiple types and strands of the flu virus including influenza B and influenza A(H1N1), as well as influenza A(H3N2). Generally speaking, flu shots tend to work better against influenza types A & B.

• Who should get a flu shot?

  According to the CDC, everyone 6 months of age and older should get an influenza (flu) vaccine every season with rare exceptions. For people who are at high risk of developing serious flu complications, including those with compromised immune systems, the flu vaccine is particularly important.

• Who should NOT get a flu shot?

  The CDC advises that only in rare cases individuals NOT receive the flu vaccine. Specifically, children younger than 6 months of age are simply too young for the flu shot. Additionally, those with severe allergies to vaccines or ingredients in them should avoid the flu vaccine. These allergies may include gelatin, antibiotics, or other ingredients. It’s best to discuss these exceptions with your primary care provider for individualized care.

• How is the flu spread?

  The flu is largely spread person-to-person. People who have the flu can spread it up to 6 feet away. Most specialists believe that flu viruses are disseminated mostly by droplets produced when flu patients cough, sneeze, or talk. These droplets may fall into surrounding people's mouths or noses, or they may be inhaled into the lungs. A person can also develop influenza by touching a surface or object that has the flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes.

• How can I avoid catching the flu?

  As with many viruses, flu is spread largely from one person to the next. According to the CDC, to avoid catching and prevent spreading the flu, it’s best to avoid close contact with people who are sick, stay home from work if you start to feel sick, wash your hands frequently, and avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, particularly during peak flu season and when you know you’ve been around potential viral contaminants.

• What to do if you've been exposed to the flu?

  If you know you have been exposed to the flu virus, it is best to see a doctor right away. Your doctor may prescribe Tamiflu (Oseltamivir), an antiviral drug, that is both a preventer of and treatment for the flu. According to the CDC, an antiviral may shorten the length of the flu and lessen the severity of symptoms if given within the first 48 hours of symptoms. It is important to note, however, that there is no cure for the flu. The CDC states that flu symptoms usually appear 2 days after the virus enters the body (although might take anywhere from 1 to 4 days). And you could spread the virus to someone else before you even realize you're sick. If you know you’ve been exposed, the CDC recommends keeping your distance from others, or even wear a mask to prevent spreading it to others.