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Flu Vaccine Questions and Answers

 

How do flu vaccines work?


Flu Shots use inactivated (not live) viruses and are designed to provoke the immune system to attack antigens found on the surface of the virus. (Antigens are foreign molecules that the immune system specifically recognizes as alien and targets for attack.)

The nasal spray-type flu vaccine uses a live, weakened virus instead of a dead one like the flu shot. The vaccine helps support the specific immune factors in the mucous membranes of the nose that fight off the actual viral infections.

Source: http://www.walgreens.com/marketing/library/contents.html?docid=000094&doctype=10

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Will my doctor be notified if I get a flu shot at Walgreens so I can keep my medical records in one place?


We're happy to send your doctor a copy of your immunization record. Just let us know.

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Does Walgreens accept insurance for flu shots?


Yes. Walgreens accepts most insurance plans. If you have Medicare Part B, you'll have no out-of-pocket cost.*

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After I get a flu shot, how long does it typically take to become fully protected?


The vaccine takes approximately two weeks to protect against prevalent flu strains.

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Should children and seniors get a flu shot every year, too?


Yes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an annual flu shot for everyone six months and older.

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Will a flu shot protect me from getting a cold?


According to the CDC, the flu vaccine does not provide protection against non-flu viruses that can cause colds and other respiratory illnesses.

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Can I schedule an appointment at Walgreens to get my flu shot?


Yes. You can schedule an appointment online or by calling your nearby Walgreens.

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What do I do if I get the flu or cold?


Ask a pharmacist for personalized advice. Chat 24x7 with a Walgreens pharmacy professional.

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Who should get a flu shot?

  • The CDC now recommends that everyone over the age of 6 months receive the flu vaccine every year. The only exceptions are for those allergic to the vaccine.
  • Two types of flu vaccine are available: a killed vaccine, given as an injection, and a live vaccine given as a nasal spray.

Everyone aged 6 months and over should get a flu vaccine; the only exception is for those who are allergic to the vaccine. It is especially important in the following groups, who are at a high risk for complications from the flu:

  • People who are 50 or more years of age
  • People who are 6 to 49 months of age
  • People who have chronic lung disease, including asthma and COPD, or heart disease
  • People who are 18 years old or younger AND taking long-term aspirin therapy
  • People who have sickle cell anemia or other hemoglobin-related disorders
  • People who have kidney disease, anemia, diabetes, or chronic liver disease
  • People who have a weakened immune system (including those with cancer or HIV/AIDS)
  • People who receive long-term treatment with steroids for any condition
  • Women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during the flu season. Women who are pregnant should receive only the inactivated flu vaccine. (Vaccinations should usually be given after the first trimester. Exceptions may be women who are in their first trimester during flu season, because their risk from complications of the flu is higher than any theoretical risk to the baby from the vaccine.)

The vaccine takes approximately two weeks to fully protect against prevalent flu strains.

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