Should you get a flu shot? Experts say yes
Mutations in some H3N2 strains may not match current flu vaccines, but doctors explain why it’s still a good idea to get vaccinated.
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Flu season is here, when influenza and other common respiratory illnesses become more prevalent. That means if you haven’t gotten your flu vaccine yet, it might be time to get one.
Although vaccine access has been called into question since Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took over the federal health agency earlier this year, recommendations for flu shots for Americans have remained largely unchanged.
According to the CDC and major medical organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians, everyone 6 months and older should get a flu shot every year unless they have an allergic reaction to an ingredient or have had a previous severe reaction.
Medical experts say the best way to prevent the flu and its potentially serious complications is to get vaccinated against the flu each year.
How much does a flu shot usually cost?
Flu shots are usually available for free or at a reduced cost in the United States.
For example, at CVS, flu shots are available for free through most insurance plans, including Medicare Part B, a spokesperson told USA TODAY.
Uninsured or underinsured children, children eligible for Medicaid, or of American Indian or Alaska Native descent can receive vaccines for free through the CDC’s Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. Uninsured or underinsured adults may also be eligible for free or low-cost vaccine assistance programs.
Low-cost or free options are available through your doctor or health care provider’s office, pharmacy, Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)-supported health center, employer, school, or community organization. To find the location closest to you to get vaccinated, visit Vaccines.gov.
How much does a flu shot at CVS cost without insurance?
For patients paying without insurance, vouchers or third-party discount cards, the flu vaccine is also available at CVS at the following prices, according to a spokesperson:
- Standard vaccine (trivalent): $74.99
- Standard Egg-Free Vaccine, Limited Quantity (Flublok): $125.99
- Adult vaccines 65 and older (Fluzone HD, Fluad): $125.99
“Patients can visit a CVS Pharmacy in person or schedule an appointment on CVS.com or the CVS Health app,” the spokesperson added.
How much does it cost to get a flu shot at Walgreens without insurance?
Flu vaccines are also available for free at Walgreens with most insurance plans, according to the Walgreens website, but the pharmacy did not respond to USA TODAY’s request for comment on pricing. Contributor: Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA TODAY
