Where and how to get seasonal flu shots amidst a pandemic

The CDC reports that seasonal influenza activity is lower than normal for this time of year. However, this could change as the colder months get closer. As the peak of the season nears, many clinics and offices that administer flu shots will have to change their ways of doing so due to the COVID-19 outbreak. For example, many clinics require masks for employees and patients, and patient screening for COVID-19 symptoms, most commonly temperature checks to see if one may have a fever. 

Many offices and clinics have also updated their guidelines in order for people to get their flu shots safely. When offering seasonal flu shots, a necessity to make sure Americans are safe from the influenza virus, they also take precautions against the coronavirus outbreak. Below, you can find the master list of clinics mentioned in this article. 

Clinics: Walmart Pharmacy, Potomac Pediatrics, Harris Teeter Pharmacy, Walgreens Pharmacy, CVS Pharmacy, Safeway Pharmacy

#1. Walmart Pharmacy 

Walmart Pharmacy is offering flu shots and immunizations for affordable prices every day. Walmart does not allow walk-ins and requires all patients to schedule their appointments before coming in. This is to ensure the safety of everyone and prevent the store from getting overcrowded. The licensed pharmacists are committed to the health and safety of everyone and they will be wearing a mask, face shield, and gloves during the immunization process. These flu shots are at affordable prices and there will be no out-of-pocket cost for flu shots with most insurance plans. You can also complete all of your necessary forms online in advance before coming in to get your flu shot. 

#2. Potomac Pediatrics

Potomac Pediatrics is a doctor’s office for children, teenagers, and young adults. This year for their flu shot services, they have required that all patients who are getting a flu shot must make an appointment prior to their visit. Walk-ins are prohibited due to lack of safety and the possible chance of too many people being in the building at once, going against social distancing guidelines. They offer the injectable flu shot and the flu mist, although it is highly recommended that patients receive the injectable flu shot as they have limited doses of the flu mist. Potomac Pediatrics has recommended for everyone to begin getting their flu shots before it starts to spread around the community since the flu vaccination takes about two weeks for antibodies to develop in your system.

#3. Harris Teeter Pharmacy 

Harris Teeter Pharmacy offers flu shots similarly to how Potomac Pediatrics does. You must make an appointment before getting the flu shot vaccination. You can do so on their website or app using the step-by-step walkthrough available on both platforms. Walk-ins are also prohibited to ensure the safety of everyone. Likewise to doctor appointments, you must be on time, or you will lose your slot to get the flu shot. 

#4. Walgreens Pharmacy

Walgreens Pharmacy is a prominent pharmacy chain in the United States that offers seasonal flu shots. They have the option for patients to schedule an appointment or walk-in. They have trained pharmacists that know which flu shot is best for you based on your age and health history. Flu shots are available during pharmacy hours only. Walgreens has been following the CDC guidelines to ensure the safest visit possible. Proper social distancing will take place by spacing out the chairs in the waiting area while patients fill out their necessary paperwork. Walgreens recommends getting the flu shots as soon as they come out to avoid missing the opportunity to get vaccinated.

#5. CVS Pharmacy

CVS Pharmacy is similar to Walgreens Pharmacy in its process. However, walk-ins are not allowed and you must schedule an appointment ahead of time. While waiting for your appointment, you must wait outside or in your car until you are called inside. This is to decrease the number of people in the building at all times.

#6. Safeway Pharmacy

Safeway Pharmacy offers drive-in clinics where you book an appointment online. To book your appointment, you just have to complete your immunization form online. They will inform you when your vaccine is ready and you just drive in. They can immunize your entire family, including children older than 3 years old. They also have a variety of locations available, so you can book the appointment at the destination closest to you. To make these vaccines more available, they are free with most types of insurances, unless your insurance requires you to pay.