At Sutter Health Plus, our focus is on keeping members safe and healthy. This year, in addition to masking and social distancing, it is especially 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 shot, at no cost share when provided by a participating provider.
Every year, one in five people is infected with the flu and about 200,000 people are hospitalized with complications in the U.S. The flu vaccine can help prevent you from getting sick or shorten an illness’s 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 September and 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.
While it’s uncertain what will happen in the fall and winter, the CDC believes it’s likely that flu viruses and COVID-19 will both be spreading. It is possible to have the flu (as well as other respiratory illnesses) and COVID-19 at the same time. If you are reading this and have not gotten a flu vaccine yet, now is the time. Even later in the season, you can still benefit from getting a flu vaccine. Talk to your doctor about which flu vaccine product is right for you.
Three Easy Ways to Get a Flu Shot*
- Visit a Sutter Walk-In Care—it is recommended to book an appointment online
- Schedule an appointment with a participating provider or Sutter flu shot clinic through My Health Online
- Visit a network pharmacy, such as Rite Aid, Walgreens, or CVS (call ahead to check availability)
Most Sutter Health Plus network medical offices and Walk-In Care locations are open and taking extra steps to help keep members safe by screening staff and patients for symptoms, requiring face masks, and sanitizing equipment and surfaces. It’s important to seek in-person, preventive care to help keep you and our communities healthy and well.
*Flu vaccines are not available at Sutter urgent care facilities.
