Can You Get the Flu Shot & COVID Vaccine at the Same Time?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), research suggests there is no interaction between the flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine and it is safe to get them at the same time. The November issue of The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal published a study involving more than 15,000 participants of which 431 received both a flu and COVID shot at the same time. Of those individuals, the majority did not have any symptoms and those who did, were mild. 

The American Medical Association recommends if you do want to get the flu and COVID vaccines during your visit, make sure the injections are at least an inch apart. This way in the event a reaction at the site does occur, your physician will be able to tell which vaccine was responsible. Dr. Greg Martin, a professor of pulmonary and critical care medicine at the Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, and president of the Society for Critical Care Medicine says, “The likelihood of side effects goes up modestly, but they are likely to be mild and won’t affect your health or make you feel miserable for long.”

The CDC says a flu shot prevents getting sick from the flu in between 40% and 60% of those who are inoculated when the vaccine is well matched to that year's viruses. For many who get the flu, the vaccine helps reduce the length and severity of their illness. Doctors say it is safe for most to get the flu vaccine if you are mildly sick from a cold or the flu. However they add if your symptoms are severe, your immune system is already busy trying to recover so wait until you feel better to get the vaccine. 

*This blog is for informational purposes only, please consult your healthcare provider for further information. 

MorningStar of Billings is proud to be one of the state’s finest senior living communities and provides independent living, assisted living and memory care. We create a true home for residents with a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. Please visit our website to learn more about pricing and availability as well as to set up a tour to experience the area’s top retirement community.     

Source: health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/is-it-safe-to-take-the-covid-19-vaccine-and-the-flu-shot-at-the-same-time?src=usn_nl_yourhealth&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Thu%20Dec%2002%2006:29:41%20EST%202021&utm_term=Your%20Health