A new COVID-19 vaccine has become available at the same time as the latest influenza vaccine, offering new ways for people to prepare for cold-weather viral seasons. But can you get these vaccines at the same time?
It is safe to get your 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as your flu vaccine, though they will be administered in different arms.
Advantages to getting the COVID-19 and flu shots at the same time
The main advantage to getting the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time is convenience. If it would be difficult to take time to get these vaccines at separate appointments, it’s worthwhile to get them both in one go at your local pharmacy, health department or doctor’s office that’s offering the vaccines.
Advantages to getting the COVID-19 vaccine and flu vaccine separately
COVID-19 is actively spreading now, so vaccinating as soon as feasible will give you the most protection. The ideal time to get the flu vaccine, though, is between September and November. Immunity from the flu shot can lessen over a few months, so if you get it too early in flu season, you might be less protected before the season ends. We typically see the peak of flu cases between December and February.
If you choose to get the two vaccines separately, it’s recommended to stagger them with at least two weeks between.
Christina Liscynesky, MD, is an infectious disease physician at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and an associate professor of Internal Medicine at The Ohio State University College of Medicine.
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