Key takeaways
- Flu shots are safe for most seniors: Side effects are usually mild and pass in a day or two.
- Ask for a vaccine made for 65+: The CDC prefers high-dose, adjuvanted or recombinant flu vaccines for older adults.¹
- Fall is the best time: September or October is ideal, but a shot later in the season still helps.¹
- Medicare covers it: Part B pays for one flu shot each season when your provider accepts Medicare assignment.
For more than 60 years, the flu shot has helped Americans fight influenza, commonly called the flu.
The flu shot for seniors is particularly important, helping to prevent hospitalizations and death or the spread of the disease. Flu season generally peaks in the fall and winter months when people spend more time indoors and in close contact.
Widely available and free in some cases, flu shots can be accessed through doctors, clinics, schools, pharmacies, and businesses. With past Covid restrictions, the U.S. experienced lower flu outbreaks, leading some to forego the flu shot. Now more than ever, it’s important to get the flu shot along with any Covid shots rather than foregoing one for the other. Each helps the immune system in different ways.
If in doubt, visit with Conviva’s Care Teams and physicians to learn more and schedule your flu shot.
Why the flu is harder on adults 65+
As we age, the immune system responds more slowly. That makes it easier for the flu to turn into something more serious, like pneumonia or a hospital stay. The CDC estimates that adults 65 and older account for 50% to 70% of flu-related hospitalizations each season and 70% to 85% of flu-related deaths.²
The flu can also make ongoing health problems worse.³ If you live with heart disease, diabetes, COPD or another chronic condition, a flu shot protects more than your lungs.
When to get your flu shot
September or October is the best time for most people.¹ Older adults should generally skip July and August, since protection can fade before flu season is over.¹ Flu usually peaks in February and can last through March.²
Missed the fall window? Get your shot anyway. Vaccination is still recommended for as long as the flu is spreading in your area.²
Fighting Flu with Facts
Is the flu shot safe?
- Yes. The flu shot has been extensively researched and millions of Americans get one each year with no adverse reaction. It's a good idea to check with your doctor if you're pregnant or have health concerns.
Is the flu vaccine effective?
- Yes. Studies have shown the vaccine reduces the risk of influenza A or B viruses by more than 60% for people older than 65 years.
Can a vaccine give me the flu?
- No. The flu is a live virus that reproduces and spreads. The vaccine has no live virus in it.
How often do I need a flu shot?
- Plan to get a flu shot each year.
Are there any flu shot dangers for seniors?
- A flu shot may cause mild side effects like aches, fever, fatigue, or soreness at the shot site. Side effects usually last just one or two days.
Is the shot effective immediately?
- No, it takes about two weeks to be fully protected.
Are flu shots free?
Where do I get a flu shot?
- Many places like clinics, doctor's offices, and drug stores offer flu shots. Talk with your primary care doctor about flu shot availability and options.
How Conviva supports your health journey
Your Conviva doctor can help you choose the right flu vaccine, check which other vaccines you're due for and get you protected before flu season peaks. Doctors spend up to 50% more one-on-one time with patients, so there's room to ask questions. If you do get sick, same-day appointments and 24/7 on-call provider access mean you can get help quickly.
Find a Conviva center near you or become a patient to schedule your flu shot.