We're reviewing what the flu shot is, why it’s important to get it, and how you can get your flu shot.
Virtual CareClinically Speaking
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In this latest video from Oscar Medical Group's Dr. Stephanie Reznick, we're reviewing what the flu shot is, why it’s important to get it, and how you can get your flu shot.
Still have questions? Read our full list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) below.
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Flu Season Video
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will my flu shot cost?
The flu shot is $0 for members at any in-network pharmacy (opens in new tab). At CVS Pharmacy® locations, your flu shot is $0* when administered by an immunizing pharmacist and comes with a $5 coupon on a $20 shopping pass**. You can schedule your appointment in advance online. Just remember to bring your Oscar ID card and valid photo ID.
Am I eligible to receive the flu shot?
Anyone six months of age or older, can get the flu shot.
When should I get my flu shot?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone six months and older receive an annual flu vaccine. The vaccine provides protection about 2 weeks after you receive it.
Oscar virtual medical director, Dr. Stephanie Reznick recommends getting your flu shots in the fall: "I encourage patients to get their flu shot in September or October, but later in the season is better than never."
You may have some minor side effects, with symptoms including but not limited to soreness, redness, or swelling of the skin at the injection site, low-grade fever, and body aches. You should feel better in 1-2 days. Reach out to Oscar’s Virtual Urgent Care (opens in new tab) with any concerns about symptoms.
Can I get the flu from the flu vaccine?
No, the flu shot is made of a dead virus, meaning it cannot infect you. You might have a little bit of an inflammatory response, like a low grade fever, but it's not an infection. You are not contagious and you will feel better very quickly.
Should I get the flu shot every year?
As we've seen with COVID, viruses mutate pretty quickly. The flu is known for doing this and different seasons have different strains of flu circulating. This is why we recommend getting a flu shot every year.
Experts do their best to guess what strains the flu will be circulating that season and make sure to protect against them in the shot. Most shots will protect against four (sometimes three) anticipated strains. Sometimes the educated guess is incorrect, but even then the flu shot will decrease your risk of having a severe infection.
Is it safe to get a flu shot during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Yes. Pharmacies are taking every precaution, from reducing process touch points through online scheduling to enforcing social distancing and the use of face masks. At CVS Pharmacy®, you’ll be given a COVID-19 screening questionnaire and have your temperature taken before you get your shot.
While the flu vaccine will not protect against COVID-19, it can reduce the risk of illness, hospitalization, and death due to potential complications of the flu.
Can I get the flu and COVID vaccines at the same time?
Experts at the CDC say it is safe to receive the flu shot and COVID vaccine at the same time. While the flu shot is one dose per season (outside of a child's first time having the flu shot, which is a two-shot series), the COVID vaccine may require a second dose.
Will wearing a mask protect me against the flu?
Masks help, but they're not perfect. This is why we recommend the vaccine as an added layer of protection so you can worry less about catching the flu.
If I'm pregnant, can I get the flu shot? Will it hurt the baby?
Pregnant women and those who delivered in the past three months are particularly susceptible to suffering from complications from the flu. The flu shot will not harm the baby and even provides some protection for the baby once it is born (and is too young to get the flu shot before the age of 6 months).
If you have concerns or unanswered questions, please reach out to a healthcare provider.
Last updated on October 7th, 2021.
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*Flu shots at CVS Pharmacy are $0 when administered by an immunizing pharmacist. If you obtain your flu shot through CVS MinuteClinic, the visit may be subject to normal cost-sharing.
** Offer available August 15, 2021 through December 31, 2021 while supplies last. Limit one per customer per vaccine visit. For vaccines that require two doses, the shopping pass will be given with vaccine series completion. Merchandise coupon redeemable at CVS Pharmacy® and Longs Drugs® for one‐time use. Terms and conditions apply. See coupon for details. $5 savings applied to total qualifying minimum purchase of $20 (after other coupons and discounts are applied). Reward cannot be earned in AR, NJ or NY. Offer not valid at MinuteClinic® locations in MA, NJ, NY, PA and RI. Coupon cannot be issued or redeemed at CVS Pharmacy at Target or CVS Pharmacy at Schnucks® locations. ExtraCare® card required to receive savings.
Flu shots and vaccines may not be available in all pharmacies at all times. Call for availability and to make an appointment, if needed. Most vaccines require a prescription (except for the flu shot). The flu shot and many vaccines to treat common illnesses are generally covered under the Affordable Care Act by non-grandfathered group health plans and non-grandfathered individual and group health insurance coverage typically with no cost sharing if provided by an in-network provider, consistent with specified dosage limits and satisfaction of age and other vaccine specific requirements. Other restrictions may apply.
This content does not constitute medical advice and is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice, including diagnosis or treatment. Contact your physician with any questions you may have regarding COVID-19 or your personal health. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance.
