Get a Flu Vaccine to Protect Yourself Against the Flu
It’s important to get a flu vaccination to protect yourself as the flu season begins. Your body typically takes up to two weeks to develop an immune response from a vaccine, so getting vaccinated early is the safest way to prevent the flu.
Protect Yourself and Your Community
“There is a real community need to be unified with flu vaccination as the flu carries a considerable risk of serious illness,” said Cameron Wolfe, MD, an infectious diseases specialist with Duke Health. “Hospitals and clinics get surges in patient volume every winter because of the flu, and the threat of strain on hospitals and clinics because of the flu and the continued need of COVID patients.”
Who Should Get a Flu Vaccine
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends flu vaccination for everyone six months of age and up. Certain populations are more vulnerable -- for example, people over 65, young children, those with respiratory illnesses such as asthma, or illnesses that lower your immunity. If you have a chronic disease or immune condition, talk with your doctors first. There are safe options for people with egg allergies.
Other Scheduling Options
If you need to make appointments for multiple family members or have questions about scheduling your flu vaccination, please call 919-385-0430 Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. You can also call your doctor's office directly to schedule your flu vaccination.
These appointments are for the flu vaccination only. Care for other healthcare needs will not be available.
Getting a Flu Vaccination During Routine Visits
If you have an upcoming annual wellness exam or another visit with a Duke primary care provider scheduled, send a message to your doctor through My Duke Health (previously Duke MyChart) or during check-in to learn if can receive a flu vaccination during that appointment. If you’re accompanying your child to a primary care appointment, you can also ask to see if you can get a vaccination at the same time your child receives one.
It Is Safe to Receive Doses of the Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines
If the clinic offers both vaccinations, you can get a vaccination for the flu and COVID-19 on the same day. Receiving both does not change the effectiveness of either vaccine or cause more side effects.
Additional Ways to Prevent the Flu
Please consider frequently washing your hands to help prevent the spread of flu and COVID-19.
