Flu Vaccinations

Why flu vaccines are important

Getting a flu shot is one of the easiest and safest ways to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community from the flu. We are stronger when everyone is protected.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about flu vaccines

You can help stop the flu by following these steps:

Get vaccinated every year.
Wash your hands often.
Cover your coughs and sneezes.
Stay home if you're sick.
Wear a mask if you or someone at home is at high risk.
Take flu medication if your doctor recommends it.

Learn more from the CDC's About Flu and Prevent Flu pages and CDPH's Influenza (Flu) page.

Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu shot every year especially those at higher risk, including:

Young children
Pregnant people
Adults 65 and older
Immunocompromised people
People with chronic health conditions (like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease).

Learn more about the high-risk groups that are at higher risk of flu complications on the CDC's People at Higher Risk of Flu Complications page. Learn more about CDC's Key Facts About Seasonal Flu Vaccine page.

The best time to get a flu shot is September or October.

Here are some timing tips for specific groups:

Pregnant people in their 3rd trimester: You can get the shot in July or August to protect your baby.
Children who need 2 doses: Start as soon as the vaccine is available. The 2nd dose should be at least 4 weeks after the 1^st.
Kids with back-to-school checkups in summer: It’s okay to vaccinate early if there’s no fall appointment planned.
Adults 65+ and pregnant people in 1st or 2nd trimester: Wait for September or October, if possible.
Learn more about flu vaccine recommendations for children at CDC's Flu and Children page.

Shasta County Public Health Immunization Clinic
Local pharmacies or your provider’s office. Many accept Medi-Cal, Medicare, and private insurance. Some offer coupons if you get your flu shot there.
Make an appointment or find a clinic near you using MyTurn.ca.gov or Vaccines.gov

Flu and COVID-19 are both viruses that spread easily and can make you very sick. Both viruses can cause health problems ranging from mild symptoms to illnesses requiring hospitalization.

Getting both vaccines gives you the best protection especially during fall and winter, when these viruses spread most. It’s safe to get both shots at the same time.
Check out CDC's Getting a Flu Vaccine and other Recommended Vaccines at the Same Time page.