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Valley Health Plan

Stay Healthy This Holiday Season with Your Flu and COVID Shots!

A picture of family members gathers at a dining table celebrating the holidays season and having some desserts and hot drinks

As the holidays approach, remember to prioritize your health.  If you plan to travel or gather with loved ones this holiday season, then you may want to get your annual flu and COVID shots before your celebrations even begin.  Both vaccines become effective about two weeks after receiving them.    

Experts recommend that everyone ages 6 months and older receive the 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccine.  Depending on vaccination history, additional doses may be recommended.  If you have any questions regarding your children’s vaccines, it is best to contact your pediatrician.

You now have the option to receive the flu and COVID shots at the same time.  If you tend to experience mild symptoms after getting vaccines, then you may choose to space them a few weeks apart.  

Why would I want to 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 may want to 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 vaccinated? 

It is best to get your flu and COVID shots during the fall when flu season usually begins.  If you are not able to get your shots until 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 summer. 

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 of the following pharmacies 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 – 4 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 already sick?

No.  You should not get any vaccines if you have COVID, or if you feel sick with a cold or flu 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].