A regular flu shot contains a traditional dose of flu virus antigens. These are typically given to healthy people under 65 years of age.
High-dose flu vaccines, sometimes called “senior flu shots,” are typically given to people age 65 and older and include 3–4 times more antigens than traditional flu vaccines. Examples of high-dose vaccines include Fluzone High-Dose Quadrivalent, Flublock Quadrivalent and Fluad Quadrivalent. Studies have shown that high-dose flu vaccines can trigger a better immune response in older adults than the traditional flu vaccine.3
How much is a flu shot with Medicare?
If you have Medicare Part B or Part C, you pay nothing for a flu shot.
How much is a flu shot without insurance?
If you don’t have Medicare or health insurance, the flu vaccine could cost $20–$120 out of pocket. The price can depend on the type of flu shot you get and where you get it.4
Note: High-dose (senior) flu shots can be more expensive than traditional flu shots.
Benefits of getting a flu shot
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu vaccination can help:5
- Keep you from getting sick with the flu
- Reduce severity of illness if you get vaccinated but still get sick
- Reduce the risk of flu-associated hospitalization
- Shorten the length of a flu hospital stay
- Reduce the risk of ICU admission from flu
- Reduce the risk of death from flu
Do you need a flu shot this year?
The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot every flu season (with rare exceptions). The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has made this universal recommendation since the 2010–2011 flu season.2
When should you get a flu shot?
If you only need 1 shot for the flu season, the CDC recommends getting it early September or October. It can take up to 2 weeks for your body to produce enough antibodies to fight the flu after getting the vaccine.6
Note: Flu activity usually peaks between December and February but can last as late as May.
Find a flu shot near you
Getting an annual flu shot is an important way to stay active, healthy and independent. To locate a nearby vaccine location, see how to find a flu shot near you.