Flu Season: Free Shots are Now Available for Veterans Enrolled in VA Care

PHOENIX (October 12, 2023) — It’s flu season – and as the virus spreads rapidly it brings symptoms including fatigue, body aches and chills, cough, sore throat, and fever.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), receiving a flu shot can take the virus from wild to mild.

Fortunately, no cost flu shots for eligible Veterans are now available at all Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Centers. Vaccines are also available at more than 65,000 in-network Community Care retail pharmacies and urgent care walk-in locations through April 2024, at no cost. Veterans enrolled in VA care can learn more about no cost flu vaccine coverage on VA’s Flu Shots web page.

Flu Shots for Spouses, Family Members and Caregivers – Prevent Spreading Flu

Annual flu shots are available now and are recommended for ages six months and up to help prevent the flu. Major U.S. pharmacy chains are scheduling flu vaccine appointments. Check out the CDC’s Flu Vaccine Finder to see where vaccines are available in your area. The CDC recommends vaccination by the end of October since the flu season typically peaks in December.