Flu and COVID Vaccines: Key Information

Fall is coming, and with it, cooler temps, vibrant leaves, and an uptick in coughs and sniffles, leading parents to ask: Is it COVID, flu, or RSV?

RSV (or respiratory syncytial virus) is a common, highly contagious respiratory virus causing mild, cold-like symptoms, which can be dangerous for young children and elderly adults. The FDA approved the first RSV vaccine last year, which the CDC recommends for all adults 75+, and those 60-74 at increased risk of severe RSV disease.

“Unlike the COVID-19 and flu shots,” epidemiologist Annette Regan wrote for The Conversation, “additional RSV doses are not currently recommended because research suggests that the vaccine offers protection for at least two RSV seasons.”

For flu and COVID, updated shots are necessary to tackle the latest strains. Thankfully, both are now available.

Wondering when to get yours? Here’s everything you need to know about getting the latest flu and COVID vaccines.

The latest vaccines

The FDA has approved three new COVID-19 boosters targeting the latest virus strains. Shots from Pfizer and Moderna are already available, while Novavax expects its version soon.

“Moderna and Pfizer both made updated formulations of the COVID-19 shot targeting this new KP.2 variant,” Regan said.

As for this year’s flu shots, they are trivalent, protecting against three flu viruses: two influenza A and one influenza B. These are expected to be the most common strains.

Who should get a vaccine?

According to the CDC, anyone 6 months and older should get the new booster, with emphasis on older adults, people with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and those in long-term care facilities.

The CDC also recommends everyone 6 months and older receive a flu shot, which can be done alongside the COVID vaccine. Officials advise scheduling vaccinations when you have downtime, as post-vaccination fatigue and soreness can occur.

It takes around two weeks for the vaccine to become fully effective, so plan accordingly.

When should I get vaccinated?

Vaccine protection wanes over time, making it crucial to stay up-to-date on shots.

If you’ve recently had COVID, consider waiting three months before getting the booster unless you’re at high risk. The CDC advises scheduling vaccinations when immunity wanes.

According to the CDC, those who contract COVID and don’t get vaccinated afterward are more likely to get the virus again.

Most people need one dose of the vaccine, but children up to 8 who haven’t been vaccinated for flu before should get two shots four weeks apart. The CDC recommends unvaccinated children get their first shot ASAP.

Adults 65+ at high risk of severe flu illness should ask for shots that trigger a stronger immune response than standard flu vaccines. The CDC recommends Fluzone High-Dose, Flublok, or Fluad for this age group.

Getting both shots at once might slightly increase side effects, though reactions are generally mild.

How much will the vaccines cost?

Flu vaccines range from $25 to over $100, depending on insurance. Most health insurance plans cover annual flu shots, including Medicare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act. County health departments often offer free flu shots during flu season.

The COVID vaccine is no longer free for uninsured individuals due to the end of federal funding for the Bridge Access Program. However, the CDC is distributing $62 million to state and local health departments to provide free COVID vaccines to the uninsured in some states.

Those with private insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid will likely receive the COVID vaccine at no cost, but uninsured adults could pay around $200.

Where do I find the vaccines?

Major pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens offer both COVID and flu vaccines. Additionally, this website lists pharmacies with COVID vaccine availability based on your zip code.