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Get Your Flu Shot

No one likes getting sick.

And the flu virus changes every year. So, getting a yearly shot helps protect your child and those around him or her. Plus, it’s available at no cost to your child. 

The flu shot is a good idea for just about everyone. But these people are at an even higher risk of health problems from the flu:

Children and Families

Young children have a higher risk of health problems from the flu. Newborns are also at a high risk but can’t get the flu shot until they are six months old.

People with a Chronic Condition or Caregivers

People with a weakened immune system are more likely to get very ill from the flu. A yearly flu shot helps protect your child and those around the family.

Find a Doctor or Pharmacy

Find a doctor or pharmacy* near you to get your flu shot.

Why get a flu shot every year?

  • Flu viruses are always changing. Scientists predict which virus will be most common each year. Flu vaccines are changed each flu season to make them work as well as possible.
  • Your protection with the flu shot gets weaker over time. That’s why a yearly flu shot is needed to keep you from getting sick.

Can the flu shot give my child the flu?

No. The flu vaccine is made from either inactive flu virus or none at all. That means getting a flu shot cannot give your child the flu. But it can reduce your child’s chances of catching the flu.

When and where should your child get a flu shot?

  • Your child should get a flu shot before the flu starts spreading where you live. Fall is the best time to get the yearly shot. If possible, get your child the shot by the end of October.
  • Your child can get a flu shot in many provider offices. Your child can also get it in clinics and health centers. Vaccines may also be offered at schools.

How do you know if someone has the flu?

The flu is different from a cold. The flu usually comes on suddenly. People who have the flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue or tiredness
  • Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea. This is more common in children than adults.

Where should you take your child if they have flu symptoms?

Visit your child’s doctor or urgent care or call the 24-hour nurse advice line at 1-866-799-5321 (TTY 1-800-955-8770) for any health questions. Unless your child has a very high fever or trouble breathing, he or she should not need to go to the emergency room for the flu.

*Only members age 18 or older can receive the flu vaccine at a pharmacy.