Flu season is just about here and continues to be a threat with the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Here’s what to know about where to get a flu shot in 2021, who needs one, the best time to get one and everything else about the upcoming flu season.
The flu shot is generally available at several locations, including your personal physician’s office, community health departments, some schools, student health centers at colleges and universities, flu clinics, and local pharmacies such as CVS, Rite Aid and Walgreens.
The following major retailers also offer flu shots: Acme, Sam’s Club, ShopRite, Stop & Shop, Target and Walmart. Some stores even offer perks if you get the flu shot there. It is, however, always recommended that you check availability at your local store first.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), everyone ages 6 months and older should receive a flu vaccine, with rare exceptions.
People who are at higher risk for developing complications from influenza should also receive the vaccine.
Generally, the fall months of September and October are the best times to get vaccinated against the flu. The CDC says that, ideally, everyone should be vaccinated by the end of October.
Adults, especially those 65 and over, should not get vaccinated early because the vaccine’s effects may decrease over time, but children can get vaccinated as soon as July or August, according to the CDC.
The CDC added that early vaccination can also be considered for those who are in their third trimester of pregnancy, because this can help protect newborns who are too young to be vaccinated in their first months of life.
There are several types of vaccines on the market, including the injectable flu vaccine, the live attenuated vaccine, the recombinant influenza nasal vaccine spray, the inactivated influenza vaccine and more.
Some vaccines are only approved for adults 18 years and older, such as the recombinant influenza vaccine, while those as young as 6 months can receive the inactivated influenza vaccine.
However, only a certified medical professional can find the best vaccine for your unique situation.
Many health insurance plans cover flu shot expenses, but it is best to check with your health insurance company first if you’re unsure.
You may need to go to a specific facility in order for it to be covered.
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Katherine Rodriguez can be reached at krodriguez@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.