The leaves are beginning to change, and the temperature is starting to drop in Cuyahoga County, which means flu season is quickly approaching.

It is expected that flu viruses and COVID-19 will both spread this fall and winter. As a result, hospitals could be overwhelmed treating both patients with flu and patients with COVID-19. That’s why this year, getting a flu vaccine is more important than ever.

While getting a flu vaccine will not protect against COVID-19, the vaccine can help reduce the risk of flu illness, hospitalization, and death and lessen the impact on the healthcare system during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends every person 6 months and older get a flu vaccine every season.

Flu vaccination is particularly important for people who are at high risk of serious complications from influenza, such as adults 65 years and older, babies and young children, and adults with chronic health conditions.

By getting vaccinated, you may also protect people around you, including those who are more vulnerable to serious flu illness.

When should I get a flu shot?
It is best to get a flu vaccine before flu season starts since it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against the flu to develop in the body. The CDC recommends people get a flu vaccine by the end of October; however, you can still get vaccinated throughout the flu season, even into January or later. 

Where can I get a flu shot?
Flu shots are available at most local pharmacies and minute clinics. Remember—face coverings are required at all flu clinic and pharmacy locations. Check with your insurance provider to see if flu shots outside of a doctor’s visit are covered by your insurance. If they’re not covered or you do not have insurance, there are other options in the community for free or low-cost flu vaccinations:

MetroHealth
Flu shots are available at all MetroHealth pharmacy locations for adults and children seven years and older. The cost is 22 dollars, and most insurance plans are accepted. Walk-ins are welcome. For more information, click here.

Cuyahoga County Board of Health (CCBH)
In October and November at the beginning of flu season, CCBH will hold walk-in flu shot clinics. CCBH has affordable options for clients lacking current medical coverage. For hours and locations, click here.

Cleveland Department of Public Health (CDPH)
CDPH offers no-cost flu vaccines for most people. The cost will be covered by most insurance plans and are free for those without insurance. For hours and locations, call 216-664-4621.

The Cleveland Clinic
Due to COVID-19, all Cleveland Clinic flu clinics will be by appointment only. There will not be walk-in flu vaccination services with the Cleveland Clinic this year. Schedule your flu vaccination appointment with the Cleveland Clinic here.

University Hospitals (UH)
To get the flu shot, contact your UH primary care physician, or, if you don’t have one, find a UH doctor online.

Flu shots are available at low-cost with no insurance or for free with most insurance at a pharmacy near you.

Pharmacy Locator:

Drug Mart Pharmacy

Ride Aid Pharmacy

CVS Pharmacy

Walgreens Pharmacy

Giant Eagle Pharmacy