influenza (Flu)

Protect Yourself from Flu

Flu can be a serious illness that is easily spread from person to person. CDC estimates that flu causes millions of illnesses, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations and thousands of deaths each year in the United States. The best way to protect yourself and your family against flu is by getting vaccinated. Everyone six months of age and older should receive the flu vaccine every year.

There are many reasons to get a flu vaccine each year:

Flu vaccines help keep you from getting very sick from flu. Flu vaccines lower chances of illness and hospitalization.
Flu vaccines lower the risk of serious flu complications. Especially among older adults or those with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease.
Flu vaccines during pregnancy help protect people who are pregnant and their babies from flu complications. This includes early delivery, low birth weight of the baby, and stillbirth.
Flu vaccines help babies and young children stay healthy. Flu vaccines help protect love ones who are at risk from flu. Getting vaccinated not helps protect infants, young children, and older adults in your family.
Flu vaccines can be given at the same time as other recommended vaccines, such as COVID-19 and RSV. It is safe, effective, and convenient to get these vaccines at the same time.

Where to Get Vaccinated

At your doctor’s office. Vaccines are usually covered by insurance. Children may be able to get no-cost vaccines through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program at healthcare providers offices and pharmacies that are enrolled in the VFC Program. Contact your doctor to learn if they are enrolled in VFC or visit MyTurn to find a vaccine clinic based on your child’s eligibility.
Schedule your flu vaccine today on MyTurn. Pharmacies usually accept most insurance, including Medi-Cal.
Some local health departments may also offer low- or no-cost flu vaccines.