Today kicks off National Influenza Week, a time to visit your local Carmichael’s Crowley Retail Pharmacy to get your annual flu shot. Influenza can lead to hospitalization and sometimes death. Every flu season is different, and people who get the flu experience a range of symptoms.

Who Should Get a Flu Shot?

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recommends that everyone six months and older get vaccinated annually. Getting a flu vaccine not only protects you but may also protect the people around you, including those who are more at-risk of serious flu-related complications – babies and young children, pregnant women, older people and people with certain chronic health conditions or underlying medical conditions.

People who should not get a flu shot and should talk with a doctor first include:

• People who have had a severe reaction to a flu vaccine in the past.
• People who have a severe egg allergy.
• People who have developed Guillain–Barré Syndrome (GBS) within 6 weeks of receiving a flu vaccine.
• People who have a moderate to severe illness.
• People who are feeling sick.

Can a Flu Shot Give Me the Flu?

It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against infection. The flu shot will not give you the flu, but some people may have minor side effects such as redness, soreness or swelling on the area where they received the shot, low-grade fever and body aches. Side effects usually go away within 1-2 days. If they last longer, contact Carmichael’s Crowley Retail Pharmacy to speak to a Pharmacist.

The flu shot also does not increase the risk of becoming sick from other respiratory viruses. An annual flu vaccine may provide optimal protection due to two main factors. A person’s immune protection from vaccination declines over time, and flu viruses are constantly changing resulting in flu vaccines being updated at least annually. People who still get sick after receiving a flu vaccine usually experience mild flu-like symptoms and have a lower chance of being hospitalized.

Will a Flu Shot Protect Me From COVID-19?

Getting vaccinated also does not provide protection against coronavirus that causes COVID-19. However, getting an annual flu vaccine reduces the risk of flu-related illness, hospitalization, and death. It can also prevent the worsening of and hospitalization for chronic health conditions.

Can I Get a Flu Shot if Have Suspected or Confirmed COVID-19?

You should not get any vaccine if you have suspected or confirmed COVID-19 whether or not you have symptoms. You can receive a flu shot after you discontinue isolation. Contact your primary care provider if you are unsure about when you are able to discontinue isolation and to discuss the timing of the vaccination.

How Much Does a Flu Shot Cost?

A flu shot may be free with private insurance or Medicare Part B. You will not have to make a copayment unless it is required by your medical insurance plan. If you are unsure about what your insurance covers, Carmichael’s billing specialists are available for consultation during normal hours of operation. They can bill Medicare, Medicaid, Healthy Louisiana and private insurance plans for you. Carmichael’s also accepts cash, checks and credit cards for flu shot costs.

Do I Have to Schedule an Appointment?

Walk-ins are welcome, and you can call ahead to schedule your flu shot Monday – Saturday during normal hours of operation. Please note that we are still taking precautions for COVID-19 such as requiring the use of face coverings, practicing social distancing and other safety measures. Call 337-783-7200 for more information and to schedule your flu shot appointment.