Get your no-cost flu shot

A flu shot is the best way to protect yourself and your family from the flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a flu shot for everyone six months of age and older. Here’s what you need to know about the flu, the flu shot, and COVID-19.

1. The flu vaccine prevents doctors’ visits, hospitalizations, and even deaths.
   According to the CDC, during 2019-2020, flu vaccination prevented an estimated 7.5 million flu illnesses, 3.7 million medical visits, 105,000 hospitalizations, and 6,300 deaths.¹ 
2. You can get your flu shot and a COVID vaccine or booster at the same time.
   According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you can get a COVID-19 vaccine and a flu vaccine at the same time if you are eligible and the timing coincides. If you haven’t already received your COVID-19 vaccine or booster, find a vaccination site. 
3. Getting vaccinated may also protect those around you.
   Young children, older people, and those with certain chronic health conditions are especially at risk for serious flu illness. 

Your doctor

If you’re going to your primary care provider only for a flu shot, you’ll pay nothing out of pocket. However, if other services—such as an office visit—occur on the same day, copays, deductibles, and/or coinsurances may apply.

Flu vaccination clinics

If you attend a flu clinic, simply give them your BCBSRI member ID number. Find flu clinics in Rhode Island.

¹Estimated Influenza Illnesses, Medical visits, and Hospitalizations Averted by Vaccination in the United States — 2019–2020 Influenza Season

²This benefit is not available to Plan 65 members or members who only have dental coverage from BCBSRI.