Flu and COVID-19 viruses can change, and so do the vaccines. Updated vaccines protect you from more recent virus strains.
It’s important to get the vaccines as soon as you can. Since it can take up to a couple of weeks for a vaccine to fully protect you, be sure to get both your flu and COVID-19 vaccines. This way, you will be fully protected before any holiday get-togethers so you can enjoy the family fun. You’ll also feel good knowing you’re taking steps to protect those around you.
The updated vaccines are free of charge for Veterans receiving care at VA and also for VA employees. Check with your local VA medical facility to make an appointment. Some locations offer walk-in hours, too.
Eligible Veterans can also get these and other vaccines at no cost within your community from one of nearly 65,000 in-network pharmacies or urgent care locations. Learn more from this fact sheet. Use our online VA locator to find a location nearest you.
Get both vaccines at the same time
Do you need both vaccines? Yes, to be best protected you should receive both flu and COVID-19 vaccines as soon as you can. And you can get them both at the same time. Many people may find it more convenient to get both vaccines at one visit.
If you choose to get them on separate days, you can do that too. There’s no recommended waiting time between getting a flu and a COVID-19 vaccine. Learn more at Getting a Flu Vaccine and a COVID-19 Vaccine at the Same Time | CDC.
VA is now offering updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccines at VA medical centers and many of its community-based outpatient clinics. The updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccines target a newer strain of the COVID-19 virus. Sites may offer the Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna or Novavax COVID-19 vaccines, so call ahead if you are looking for a specific vaccine.
Due to changes in the virus and weakening immunity, it is important to get the updated 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you are eligible.
One dose of an updated 2023-2024 vaccine is recommended for all adults at least two months after any older COVID-19 vaccine dose. Anyone who has not yet received any COVID-19 vaccine should receive one single dose of an updated 2023-2024 Pfizer or Moderna vaccine or a series of two doses three weeks apart of an updated 2023-2024 Novavax vaccine.
If you haven’t received your updated flu and COVID-19 vaccines yet this season, now is the time to make plans to get them. Check in with your local VA or community provider to make sure they have the vaccines you want, and ask if you need an appointment. It’s good to bring this with you and show it to the provider if you prefer to get vaccinated in the community. Act now and be ready for a fun and safe holiday with family and friends.
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