Protect Yourself and Others by Getting a Flu Shot
In addition to remaining vigilant and following public health guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19, it’s important to protect yourself and those around you from Influenza (flu) and flu-related illness by getting the annual flu vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone six months of age and older get an annual flu vaccine. Sutter Health Plus covers preventive care services, such as the yearly flu vaccine, at no cost share when provided by a participating provider.
The flu vaccine may help prevent the flu or shorten its duration and prevent the spread of flu to those who are vulnerable. Pregnant women, young children, adults over 65, and people with certain health conditions are at greater risk for severe flu complications.
Flu season typically runs from October through March or April. Sutter experts recommend getting vaccinated between mid-September through October to help ensure the vaccine remains potent and has the best chance of protecting you through the duration of the flu season. It takes your body about two weeks after vaccination to build the antibodies that protect against the flu.
Three Ways to Get a Flu Shot*
- Schedule an appointment at a Sutter flu shot clinic through My Health Online or calling (844) 987-6115.
- Schedule an appointment at a Sutter Walk-In Care (available for members six months and older by appointment only).
- Visit a network pharmacy, such as Rite Aid, Walgreens, or CVS (call ahead to check availability).
Already Caught the Flu?
If you think you’ve caught the flu, contact your doctor for diagnosis and any needed treatment. If you need care quickly, consider same-day care at a Sutter Walk-In Care location or through a video visit.
The Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines
Even if you have received the COVID-19 vaccine, you still should consider getting a flu vaccine. The two viruses are different and require separate immunity-boosting vaccination—just as measles and chickenpox do.
We understand many people have questions about the availability of COVID-19 booster vaccines. While booster doses are not currently approved or recommended by the FDA for the general population, we anticipate approvals may occur soon and we will share more information at that time.
*Flu vaccines are not available at Sutter urgent care facilities.
Employer Spotlight: Waterbar and EPIC Steak
Across Northern California, the COVID-19 pandemic has created countless challenges for restaurateurs and their staff. From moving dining outdoors and reducing hours to layoffs and closures, the impact on each restaurant is unique. As businesses in the hospitality industry navigate their own unique hurdles, Sutter Health Plus is privileged to support our employer groups and their employees by offering affordable access to high-quality care.
Improving Mental Wellness with Sanvello
In times of change—whether it’s relationships, personal obligations, work-related or otherwise—caring for mental wellness can be essential in how people process feelings of uncertainty, manage stress, and cope with life’s challenges. There are simple ways to make a positive impact on mental wellness, such as taking time each day for self-care, mindfulness, and gratitude.
One Member’s Journey with Tera—
Virtual-First Primary Care
Kathy is a Bay Area resident and program manager for Oakland Unified School District who is living with a chronic, long-term condition. Over the past year, she struggled to find engaged providers who offered care options that fit her needs, including the option of traveling less to access care.
Virtual-First Primary Care
An Update on COVID-19 Vaccinations
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a third COVID-19 vaccine dose for certain individuals with moderately to severely compromised immune systems who previously received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines. Studies indicate that this population may benefit from an additional dose to increase their immune system response and ensure adequate protection against COVID-19, including the highly infectious delta variant.
Read More about An Update on COVID-19 Vaccinations