Getting an annual flu shot is one of the best ways you can help protect yourself, your family, your coworkers and your neighbors against influenza. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recommends that most people get a flu shot each year, and it encourages people to get their flu shots as early in the flu season as possible.
In terms of where to get the annual flu shot, there are several options available. Here is a list prepared by vaccine injury attorney Leah V. Durant, founder of the Law Offices of Leah V. Durant, PLLC:
Your Doctor’s Office
Your doctor’s office should be able to provide you, your spouse or partner, and your children with an annual flu shot. If your doctor’s office happens to run out of doses, then your doctor should be able to refer you to a local clinic or pharmacy where you and your family can get vaccinated. If you have any concerns about getting the flu shot, your doctor should be able to address these concerns for you as well.
Your Local Pharmacy
Many pharmacies offer flu shots, and they tend to stock up during flu season. If you do not need to see your doctor, then going to your local pharmacy may be a cheaper option than paying for an office visit and physical exam. Some doctor’s offices charge for these additional services when providing vaccines, and some do not. You can contact your doctor’s office to find out how much you will need to pay (and if your family’s vaccines will be covered by your health insurance). You can also contact your local pharmacy to find out if it has the flu shot available and if you need to come in during certain hours.
You can find local pharmacies that are offering flu shots with VaccineFinder.org, which is supported by HHS.
Government-Funded Health Centers
Health centers funded by local, state and federal government agencies make flu shots available to individuals and families who do not have health insurance coverage. At some of these health centers, the amount you have to pay is determined by how much you make. You can search for government-funded health centers through the HHS website.
Your Place of Employment
Some employers offer low-cost and no-cost flu shots to employees and their families. Some employers sponsor flu shot drives during flu season, while others offer flu shots year-round.
Local Schools and Clinics
Local schools, clinics and other community organizations often make flu shots available to students and community members as well. In many cases, these are also offered as free or low-cost options.
Find Out What You Need to Know about Flu Shot Injuries
While most people who get the flu shot do not experience negative effects, it is possible to experience an illness or injury from getting vaccinated. If you or your child is diagnosed with a flu-shot-related injury or illness, we encourage you to call 202-800-1711 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with vaccine injury attorney Leah V. Durant.
Leah Durant Bio
Experienced litigation attorney Leah Durant focuses on representing clients in complex vaccine litigation matters. Leah Durant is the owner and principal attorney of the Law Offices of Leah V. Durant, PLLC, a litigation firm based in Washington, DC. Leah Durant and her staff represent clients and their families who suffer from vaccine-related injuries, adverse vaccine reactions and vaccine-related deaths. The Law Offices of Leah V. Durant, PLLC is dedicated to assisting individuals in recovering the highest level of compensation as quickly and efficiently as possible. To learn more, contact vaccine attorney Leah Durant today.