The flu is going around Miami. Is it too late to get a vaccine? What the experts say
Are you thinking about getting the flu vaccine?
The U.S. is seeing its worst flu season in 15 years and it seems like everyone is getting sick.
It’s usually recommended that people get vaccinated between September and October ahead of the colder winter months. But don’t worry — doctors and health experts say it’s not too late to get the shot.
“Given the level of flu activity right now, I believe we’re going to have at least a couple more months when it’s going to be around, and that means that you will absolutely have a benefit if you decide to get vaccinated today,” said Mary Jo Trepka, an infectious disease epidemiologist at Florida International University.
The U.S. flu season typically runs from October to May, but you’ll need to roll up your sleeve quickly. It generally takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop some protection against the flu virus.
Here’s what else to know:
Is the flu vaccine effective against the influenza strain in Florida?
The good news is that influenza A — the strain predominantly circulating in Miami-Dade County and the rest of Florida — is one of three targeted by the 2024-2025 flu vaccine. The shot is trivalent, which means it was designed to help protect against three flu strains — influenza A(H1N1), influenza A(H3N2) and influenza B/Victoria virus.
“The flu vaccine doesn’t always protect you from getting an infection but if you do get the infection it does assist in preventing the severity of that infection,” said Dr. Marcos Mestre, chief medical officer for Nicklaus Children’s Hospital near South Miami.
READ MORE: ‘Everybody is getting sick.’ Flu is on the rise in Florida — and here’s what doctors say
Who should consider getting the flu vaccine?
The CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older get the single-shot flu vaccine annually, especially those who are considered to be higher risk for severe complications. This includes adults 65 and older, children younger than 2, and people who are pregnant, are immunocompromised or have certain health conditions including asthma, heart disease and chronic lung disease.
Where can you get the flu vaccine?
You can find flu vaccines at CVS, Walgreens, Navarro Discount Pharmacies, CVS y Mas, Costco, and at some doctor offices and community health centers. Some grocery and retail stores with pharmacies usually have the shots available, including Publix, Target stores with CVS pharmacies inside, and Walmart.
While you can schedule an appointment online, you can also just show up and see if they have a shot in stock.
How much do flu vaccines cost?
Flu vaccines are covered by most private health insurance plans and are also covered by Medicare and Medicaid. Make sure you get vaccinated at an in-network provider. Check your insurance for more information.
For people without insurance, the cost of a flu vaccine will vary and can usually cost from $20 to $120, according to GoodRX. At CVS, for example, flu shots cost $68.99-$115.99. At Walgreens, the vaccine costs $58.99, with the flu vaccine for people 65 and older priced at $108.99. Costco has flu vaccines for $19.99. The shot for seniors 65 and older costs $59.99.
People without insurance can look to local health departments and health centers to see if they offer free or low-cost vaccinations. Sometimes churches, schools and other community hubs host free vaccination events. Your doctor might know of places you can go, too.
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