Protect yourself and others with a flu vaccine
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an annual flu vaccine is the first and most important step in protecting yourself and others against flu viruses.
Help fight flu
Everyone 6 months and older in the United States should get an influenza (flu) vaccine every season with rare exception. The flu vaccine can prevent you from getting the flu and can reduce the severity of illness and risk of hospitalization if you do get sick with the flu. It is the best way to protect yourself and others.
The best time to get a flu shot is in September and October, but you can and should still get vaccinated throughout the flu season.
Getting vaccinated yourself can help protect loved ones who may be at higher risk for flu including babies, older adults, and people with chronic medical conditions.
Fast facts about the flu vaccine
- You need to get a flu vaccine every year because flu viruses change quickly and your immune protection from vaccination declines over time.
- You can't get flu from a flu vaccine. You may have side effects from getting the flu shot, but these side effects are usually mild and short-lasting, especially when compared to symptoms of flu.
- Most flu vaccines protect against the flu viruses that research suggests will be most common that year.
Who is at higher risk of flu complications?
It's especially important to get a flu vaccine if you are part of one of these groups or care for someone who is at high risk. When you get vaccinated, you reduce your risk of getting sick with flu and possibly being hospitalized or dying from flu.
Adults 65 years and older
Adults with chronic conditions
Pregnant people and their babies
Children younger than 5 years
Where can you get a flu shot? How much does it cost?
You can get a flu shot at:
- Your provider's office or any in-network retail clinic.
- Members age nine and above can obtain a vaccine from any participating pharmacy nationwide. Visit our pharmacy directory to find a location near you.
Mass General Brigham Health Plan members can get a flu vaccine with no cost sharing when you see an in-network provider. Remember to bring your member ID card when you get your vaccine.
Please note that if you receive the flu shot at a participating pharmacy, your shot is covered under your prescription drug coverage. Employers that are self-insured may not offer prescription drug coverage through Mass General Brigham Health Plan. However, you may still receive the flu vaccine at other locations, including retail clinics and provider offices. To check the details of your coverage, please contact your employer or visit the Member Portal.
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