Get your flu shot each year to protect yourself and those around you from serious illness and complications from the flu.

Why get a flu shot?

Your yearly flu shot is an essential part of staying healthy. The flu is highly contagious, and the flu shot protects you, your family, and your community from becoming seriously ill. Here’s what you need to know about getting yours.

Why you need a new flu shot every year

Flu viruses change quickly. That’s why new flu vaccines are made each year. So, the vaccine you got a year ago is likely no longer effective.

New flu vaccines usually become available as early as September.

When should I get the flu vaccine?

You can get sick from the flu anytime during the year, but it is most common between October and May, during flu season.

The Washington State Department of Health recommends that everyone* age six months and older, including pregnant and nursing people, get a yearly flu vaccine.

It takes two weeks for the flu vaccine to start protecting you from the flu. That’s why it’s best to get it before the weather gets cold and we start to spend more time inside. In the winter months, more people get sick with the flu, and it is most likely to spread.

Get your flu shot as soon as September for the most protection, or as early in the flu season as you can. Flu vaccines are available throughout fall and winter and will offer protection through the end of spring.

*Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have a health condition, have had reactions to vaccines in the past, or are concerned about getting the flu shot.

Where can I get a flu vaccine?

Visit or call your local doctor’s office, clinic, or pharmacy and ask for the flu shot. You can also get your flu shot at drug stores and grocery stores with pharmacies.

Or search online to find out where to get a vaccine near you at vaccines.gov.

How much does the flu shot cost?

In most cases, your flu shot is free ($0)!

For adults:

• Most health insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare Part B, cover the cost of flu vaccines every year for adults.
• If you have a CHPW Apple Health (Medicaid), Medicare Advantage Plan, or Individual & Family Cascade Select Plan you can get your flu shot at no additional cost.

To ask questions about what your health plan covers or request assistance, call the  number on the back of your health plan member ID card.

• If you don’t have insurance coverage for the flu vaccine, you may still be able to receive it at no cost ($0). Contact your local health department for availability and locations.

For children:

• Children age 18 and under can get a flu vaccine and other recommended vaccines at no cost ($0) from many providers in Washington. Some providers may charge an administration fee to give the vaccine, but you can ask them to waive this fee if you cannot afford it.
• Families can also reach out to Help Me Grow Washington at 1-800-322-2588 (language assistance available) for help finding vaccines and other health resources.
• Vaccines can be uncomfortable for anyone. For tips to help kids of all ages feel better, read Helping Children During Immunizations by Healthwise.

Learn more

• Flu facts from the WA State Department of Health
• CHPW Public Health News: Flu updates and other public health issues
• From the American Academy of Pediatrics, Vaccine Safety: Get the Facts