Flu Vaccine
Fight the flu
The flu vaccine is vitally important this year! Protect yourself and your family.
Call 617-568-4500 to schedule a flu vaccine appointment. Our scheduling line is open 8:00 am—5:00 pm, Monday–Friday.
The flu is a concern each year in Boston, especially from October through March, when most flu activity occurs. Getting yourself and your family vaccinated against the flu is important. We welcome patients and non-patients for flu vaccines. Rest assured that EBNHC practices extra safety precautions to keep you safe while getting care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What is the flu?
Influenza (often called “flu”) is a contagious illness caused by the influenza virus. Symptoms include fever, cough, muscle aches, headache, runny nose, sore throat, and general weakness. The onset of these symptoms may be sudden. Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Young children, people who are 65 years old and older, and people with other medical problems are at higher risk to develop severe illness if they get the flu.
Is flu dangerous?
Flu can be dangerous, especially for the very young, the very old, and for those with other medical problems. Most people with flu are ill for a few days; however, some may develop pneumonia or other serious complications. Every year, flu causes thousands of hospital admissions in the United States.
Who should get a flu vaccine?
Everyone six months and older should get the flu vaccine. Some people have a higher risk for serious illness, including young children, pregnant women, people who are 65 years old or older, and people with certain health conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease). Even people who are not at risk for severe illness can pass the infection to their families, friends, and colleagues, some of whom may be high-risk. Getting flu vaccines provides individual as well as community protection against the flu and is a public health step we can all take!
Can I get a flu shot and a COVID vaccine at the same time?
Yes, the CDC confirms that the flu vaccine and COVID vaccine can be given at the same time.
When should I get the vaccine?
Flu season runs from October through March. Getting a vaccine earlier in the flu season can provide longer protection against the virus; however, vaccines are available all season. Adults and older children only need one dose of vaccine to be protected; some children under 9 will need two doses. Check with your doctor to make sure.
How can I protect myself from the flu?
In addition to getting your flu vaccine, there are many ways to help prevent the spread of germs (including COVID-19):
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand gel.
- Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Clean surfaces in your home regularly with a household cleaner.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick when possible.
- If you become sick, stay home. A person with the flu should stay home for 24 hours after their fever has gone away without the use of fever reducing medicine. For most people, this will be a minimum of 4 days.
