COVID-19 and the Flu Vaccine

Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 and the Flu Vaccine

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Should people get a seasonal flu vaccine? Can I get the flu vaccine at the same time as I get my COVID-19 vaccine?

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Yes, the CDC recommends that everyone age 6 months and older get an updated flu vaccine every flu season, which occurs in the U.S. in the fall and winter. The best time to get your flu vaccine is in September or October, before the flu is spreading in your community.

It is safe to receive a COVID-19 vaccine dose at the same time you receive a flu vaccine. Some people may choose to get each vaccine in a different limb to minimize possible discomfort. Ask your healthcare provider if you have any questions about getting either or both vaccines.

Updated November 9, 2023 

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Messaging Resources about COVID-19 and the Flu Vaccine

Updated Toolkit: COVID-19 Booster Dose Messaging and Outreach Tools

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December 20, 2022

Toolkit: Flu Messaging and Resources

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November 02, 2022
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Misinformation Alerts about COVID-19 and the Flu Vaccine

Posts claim that COVID-19 vaccines will be rebranded as mRNA flu shots
March 02, 2024

A local news story about how mRNA technology is being used to make new flu vaccines is circulating among vaccine opponents, with some claiming that COVID-19 vaccines will be rebranded as flu vaccines. Recommendation: Low Risk About Us The Public Health Communications Collaborative (PHCC) was developed in response to the urgent need for timely, relevant,

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Post promotes diet, vitamin D as fake alternatives to the flu shot
September 22, 2022

A nurse who frequently posts anti-vaccine images shared a post that falsely claims that healthy eating, exercise, prayer, and vitamin D are alternatives to getting the flu shot. Recommendation: Medium Risk About Us The Public Health Communications Collaborative (PHCC) was developed in response to the urgent need for timely, relevant, and practical tools, messaging, and

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Vaccine opponents equate flu, COVID-19 to disparage vaccines
April 01, 2022

A video clip has resurfaced that features Dr. Anthony Fauci in a 2004 interview saying that a recent influenza infection provides sufficient protection to skip the flu shot. Vaccine opponents are using the clip to claim that reliance on “natural immunity” should apply to COVID-19 vaccines. COVID-19 and the flu are not the same disease

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