A flu shot is a vaccine designed to help protect against the influenza “flu” virus. It works by stimulating your immune system to produce antibodies that recognize and fight the virus if you’re exposed. Flu vaccines are updated each year to target the strains expected to circulate during the upcoming flu season.
Urgent Care for flu shots
Many urgent care centers offer seasonal flu shots as part of their preventive care services, making it easy and convenient to get vaccinated. With walk-in availability and extended hours, urgent care centers help individuals and families stay protected throughout flu season. Flu shot availability may vary by location, so please contact your nearest center before visiting to confirm that vaccines are available.
Who can get the flu shot?
Anyone 6 months and older can get the flu shot. People who are at higher risk of flu complications should consider getting a flu shot as soon as they are available. If you have questions about whether the flu shot is right for you or how it works, ask your primary care physician or one of the knowledgeable providers during any visit to an urgent care center. High-risk individuals include:
Adults 65 and older
Healthcare workers
People with preexisting conditions
Pregnant women
Caregivers of children under the age of 5
Why get a flu shot?
The flu can make you feel lousy and can lead to severe complications, especially for those over 65 or with compromised immune systems.
Additionally, the flu shot protects not only you, but the people around you too.
How does the flu shot work?
The flu shot helps reduce your risk of contracting the flu by about 50%, according to data by the CDC. The flu vaccine also helps reduce the severity of the illness and lowers the risk of severe complications.
The effectiveness of the vaccine can vary year to year and can depend on the person receiving the shot. The traditional flu shot is normally less effective for older adults, when compared to those under 65.
The flu vaccine works by introducing a small viral protein into the body which causes the body to produce antibodies against the illness. When the body has antibodies against a disease, this helps it create a stronger immune response when it encounters the virus.
It takes about 2 weeks for the body to produce enough antibodies, which is why it’s wise to get the shot before flu season begins.
Other conditions an urgent care can treat
In addition to flu shot services when available, urgent care centers can also help you if you do get the flu or another respiratory illness. The services include:
- Allergy management
- Asthma treatment and care
- COVID-19 testing and treatment of mild and moderate symptoms
- Diagnosis and treatment of all respiratory illnesses
- Sore or strep throat treatment
What to expect during a visit
When you visit an urgent care for a flu shot, a provider may ask you a few questions about your medical history and allergies to determine if it is right for you. This will likely not be a full medical evaluation. The vaccine is a simple injection in the upper arm and only take a few seconds.
If you having flu-like symptoms, a healthcare provider will review your symptoms and medical history to determine whether flu testing or vaccination is appropriate.
Rapid flu testing typically involves a quick nasal swab, with results available in about 10-15 minutes. Your provider may also discuss next steps, including treatment options if your test is positive, or provide guidance on managing symptoms at home.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Flu Shots
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