Your Questions About Flu Shots, Answered by CVS Pharmacists

CVS Pharmacy pharmacists address common questions about flu shots, including whether flu, COVID-19 and other recommended vaccines can be administered during the same visit.

As flu season nears, the best time for many people to get vaccinated is generally in early fall. CVS Pharmacy pharmacists are answering the flu, COVID-19 and adult vaccine questions patients often ask at this time of year. If you are due for your annual flu shot or wondering whether you can receive more than one vaccine in one appointment, here is what the pharmacists say you should know.

Do healthy adults still need a flu shot?

Yes. Flu viruses change from year to year, and vaccination protection fades over time, so an annual flu vaccine is recommended for nearly everyone 6 months and older, including people who are generally healthy and do not get sick often.

“Healthy adults can still get seriously ill from the flu, and vaccination remains the best protection for yourself and the people around you,” says Amy Lynn Valentine, PharmD, MBA, CVS Pharmacy.

Can I get a flu and COVID-19 vaccine during the same visit?

In many cases, yes. People who are eligible and due for both vaccines may be able to receive them at the same appointment. Getting recommended vaccines together can be a safe and convenient way to stay current. Eligibility and availability can vary by age, location and current federal and state guidance, so it is best to ask your pharmacist to confirm the right timing and options when you schedule.

When is the best time to get a flu shot?

For most people, early fall is the ideal time to get vaccinated, preferably before the end of October. Since it takes about two weeks for the body to build protection, it is better not to wait until the flu is already spreading widely in the community. If that window passes, getting vaccinated later can still offer protection while flu viruses continue circulating.

Can I get more than one vaccine at the same time?

Often, yes. CVS Pharmacy offers a range of adult vaccines, and pharmacists can help determine which recommended vaccines may be given during the same visit based on age, health history, eligibility and current guidance. These may include vaccines for flu, COVID-19, RSV, shingles, pneumococcal pneumonia and measles.

What are the side effects of the flu shot, and how long do they last?

Flu shots are made with inactivated viruses or proteins from the flu virus, so they cannot cause flu illness. Common side effects may include soreness, redness or swelling where the shot was given, along with headache, fever, nausea, muscle aches or fatigue. These effects may start soon after vaccination and usually go away on their own within a few days. Serious allergic reactions are very rare.

What can I expect at my appointment?

CVS Pharmacy makes it easy to schedule an appointment online, book an appointment for up to four family members at once, and talk with a pharmacist about which vaccines may make sense for you this season. Walk-in vaccinations may also be available. Availability, eligibility and age restrictions can vary by vaccine and location.

Schedule your flu shot — and check which other vaccines you may be due for — at CVS.com/immunizations or in the CVS Health app.