Flu shot and preventing seasonal flu
Millions of people get influenza (flu) every year, and while it may be common, seasonal flu is a potentially serious disease. It can lead to hospitalization and even death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).1
Getting a flu vaccine (flu shot) every year can reduce the risk of having to go to the doctor with flu by 40 percent to 60 percent.1 With most UnitedHealthcare benefit plans, you can get a flu shot at no additional cost to you.
Plan your flu and COVID-19 vaccines during the same visit
According to the CDC, everyone 6 months and older can get an updated COVID-19 vaccine. Getting the flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to help protect yourself and your family. According to the CDC, the flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be received during the same time. Talk to your doctor to schedule your vaccines together.
Frequently asked questions about flu shots
If you have a UnitedHealthcare health plan, the flu vaccine is covered at 100% for most benefit plans, which means you can get a flu shot at no additional cost to you.
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Albertsons® Companies
Including Acme Sav-on, Albertsons Osco, Albertsons Sav-on, Haggen, Jewel-Osco, Star Markets, Shaws Osco, and Safeway
- Costco Pharmacy
- Harris Teeter®
- H-E-B®
- Hy-Vee®
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The Kroger Co.
Including Smith’s, Ralphs, Roundy’s, Pick ‘n Save, Copps, Metro Market, Mariano’s, Fred Meyer, QFC, Harris Teeter, King Soopers, City Market, Dillons, Baker’s, Gerbes, Jay C Food Stores, Owen’s, and Pay Less
- The Little Clinic®
- Meijer®
- MinuteClinic®
- Rite Aid
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Safeway® Stores
Including Carrs, Pavilions, Randalls, Tom Thumb, and Vons
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United Supermarkets®
Including Albertsons Market, Amigos, and Market Street
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Walgreens®
Including Duane Reade, Jim Myers, Kerr Drug, May’s Drug, Parkway Drug and Super D.
- Walmart Inc. and Sam’s Club®
A yearly flu shot is recommended for most everyone 6 months of age and older, even healthy people.
It’s especially important for people who are at high risk of serious complications to get the flu shot. If you’re in this group, you may also want to ask about the pneumonia vaccine. These groups include:
- Adults 65 years and older
- Pregnant women
- Young children under 2 years old
- Those with specific health conditions
It’s generally recommended that people get a flu vaccine by the end of October, according to the CDC. The flu season peaks often in February and can last until May, so you can still get the flu vaccine later. No matter when you get your flu shot, it will still be valuable to help protect you for the rest of the flu season. Talk to your provider about the best time to get your flu shot. Remember to ask about other vaccines you might need to protect yourself this year too.
Learn more facts about flu shots
Watch these videos to get up to speed on flu shot facts to know for this year.
More ways to help protect yourself against the flu
After you get your flu shot, continue to take steps to protect yourself and others from the flu. That means frequent handwashing, wearing a mask and keeping a safe distance when you’re in public spaces.