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Valley Health Plan

Flu and COVID season shots!

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Now that cold and flu season is approaching, stay healthy by getting your annual flu and updated COVID vaccines. Experts recommend getting both shots before you start your holiday celebrations and travel. 

It is recommended that everyone ages 5 years and older receive 1 dose of the updated (2023–­2024 Formula) mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. The number of doses for children ages 6 months to 4 years will depend on their prior COVID vaccination status. Please talk with your pediatrician if you have questions.

This year, if you prefer, you can get both shots at the same time. If you are someone who occasionally experiences mild symptoms after getting your vaccines, you can also space them a few weeks apart.

Why get the flu and COVID shots? 

  • They lower your chances of getting sick from the flu or COVID (this includes coughing, runny nose, fever, and pains for one to two weeks).
  • They lower your chances of becoming very sick, having to be cared for at a hospital, and even death.
  • They help protect family, friends, and other people around you. This includes babies, young children, older adults, and those with health risks, such as diabetes, heart disease, and asthma. 

Who should get annual flu and COVID shots?

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) advises yearly flu and COVID shots for those 6 months and older. Flu and COVID shots are even more important for people who have health issues and have a higher risk of getting sick.

When is the best time to get the flu and COVID shots? 

It is best to get your flu and COVID shots in October before the flu season usually begins. If you are not able to get your shots until November, December, or January, you may still want to get them because the flu season often peaks in February, and flu and COVID outbreaks can carry into May. 

What is the cost of the flu and COVID shots?

The flu and COVID shots are free for VHP members at any VHP plan pharmacy or through your primary care physician. 

Where can I get my free flu and COVID shots? 

  • You can get your flu and COVID shots at any VHP network pharmacy, including Walgreens, Safeway, Costco, and CVS. Please set a time in advance over the phone or online and bring your VHP ID card.
  • You can also get your flu and COVID shots at any Valley Medical Center pharmacy by clicking here for an appointment: myHealth Online - Schedule an Appointment (sccgov.org). 
  • In addition, you can call your primary care physician to see if they offer flu and COVID shots.
  • For parents with children ages 6 months – 3 years old, please call your pediatrician for vaccine information and appointments. 
  • You can also call VHP Member Services at (888) 421-8444 or email [email protected] to find other locations.

Can I get a flu or COVID shot if I am sick?

No. You should not get any vaccines if you have COVID, or if you feel sick with a cold virus. After you fully recover and have no signs of being sick, then you can get flu and COVID shots.

Is it safe for pregnant women to get the flu and COVID shots?

The CDC says that it is safe for women who are or will be pregnant during cold and flu season to get flu and COVID shots. However, if you have any specific questions, contact your primary care physician. 

Who should not get a flu or COVID shot?

Some people should talk with their primary care physician before getting a flu or COVID shot. Examples include:

  • People who have an allergy to eggs
  • People who have had bad reactions to flu or COVID shots in the past
  • People who have never had a COVID shot before (to ensure they get the correct vaccine)
  • People who became ill from Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) within 6 weeks of getting a flu shot
  • People who are feeling sick or have an illness

Can getting the flu shot or COVID shot give me the flu or COVID?

No. However, some people may have side effects after getting a flu or COVID shot. Side effects are usually mild and will often go away on their own within days. Side effects may include:

  • Low fever
  • Redness and soreness at the site of injection
  • Body aches, headaches, and fatigue

If you have any questions about flu or COVID shots or need assistance, call VHP Member Services at (888) 421-8444 or email [email protected].