Stay Healthy, Stay Safe

December 13, 2024

Getting flu and COVID-19 vaccines are the best way to avoid getting sick.

Here’s what you need to know about getting your flu and COVID-19 booster shots this fall or winter.

Experts say get vaccinated now. Doing this protects you and your family. It also helps keep the community safe. In fact, getting these shots once a year could save someone’s life.

What is the difference between the flu and COVID-19?

Both the flu and COVID-19 are infections of the nose, throat and lungs. However, they are caused by different viruses. Flu is caused by infection from an influenza virus. COVID-19 is the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, which is the coronavirus that started in December 2019.

Both can easily spread from person to person. When someone who is sick coughs, sneezes or talks, tiny droplets spray out and spread. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people nearby. They can also get sick.

Why get vaccinated?

Most people get better from the flu and COVID-19 over time without problems, but both viruses can be deadly. 

Some people get so sick they need to be hospitalized. Some can die from health problems related to the flu and COVID-19. Problems can include pneumonia, ear and sinus infections, and worsening of health issues such as congestive heart failure, asthma or diabetes.

Getting vaccinated has been shown to lower the chance and seriousness of illness, hospitalization and even death.

Are the vaccines safe? 

The flu and COVID-19 vaccines have been fully tested. They are safe for most people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)* and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) study the safety of all vaccines that are licensed in the United States. This includes the seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines.

Who should get vaccinated for the flu and COVID-19?

The CDC advises that everyone ages 6 months or older should get a flu and COVID-19 vaccine each year. These vaccines are especially important for people who are more at risk for getting other health problems.

This includes:

• People who have heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease and lung diseases such as asthma.
• Pregnant women, young children, and anyone who lives with or cares for young children.
• Anyone in close contact with a person at risk for other health problems. 

When and where should people get the flu and COVID-19 vaccines?

The best way to protect yourself is to get vaccinated or boosted when you can. The CDC recommends the fall and winter months as the best times to get your shots.

The flu and COVID-19 vaccines are free to Healthy Blue members and the general public. Vaccines are offered many places. This includes doctor’s offices, clinics, health departments, drugstores and university health centers. Some employers and even some schools offer vaccines. 

Look for vaccination clinics in your neighborhood. Schedule your shots today!

If you need more information, call Healthy Blue Customer Service at 866-781-5094 (TTY: 866-773-9634) Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

_{*The CDC is an independent organization that offers health information Healthy Blue members may find useful.}