How to get your fall respiratory vaccines

Every fall, respiratory illness becomes a topic of discussion in my exam room. Patients want to know if their vaccine recommendations have changed, what shots they’re due for, and where they should go to get vaccinated. Because guidance can change from year to year, the start of autumn is the perfect time to review your options and make a plan.

My advice is simple: don’t let the process become a barrier. Whether you choose to get your shot from your family doctors, stop by a local pharmacy or schedule appointments for the whole family, finding the clearest path forward is the key to practicing good health.

Learn what vaccines are recommended for you

Vaccine recommendations are based on factors like age, health, life situation and other considerations. That’s one reason why I encourage patients to discuss vaccines with their family doctor. Recommendations can change each year, and your physician is the best person to help you make your plan.

FamilyDoctor also has immunization schedules available that can help you make sure you’re up to date.

Can you get more than one vaccine at the same time?

In general, yes. A lot of my patients get their flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine in the same visit, as it saves them another trip in. However, scheduling separate appointments is completely fine if that is more convenient for you.

Where to get your flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines

Vaccines for RSV, flu, and COVID-19 are widely available, so there’s not a specific place you have to go—and that’s a good thing! You should get your shot(s) wherever is easiest for you. Here are a few examples of where you can get vaccinated:

• Your family doctor.
• A retail pharmacy.
• A supermarket.
• Local health departments.
• Vaccine drives.

Do I have to get my vaccine from my doctor?

No, you don’t. While I’m happy to provide vaccines to my patients, the most important thing is that they get their shot. In fact, I’ve run into neighbors getting their shots at our local supermarket pharmacy. They were proud to be caught practicing good health, and I was proud of them too.

Whatever route is easiest for you, take it—just make sure your doctor is notified if you get your shot elsewhere so they can update your records. This will ensure you can get the right recommendations moving forward.

What to know before your appointment

The logistics of getting vaccinated can seem complicated, but really, it’s a simple process. Call ahead to your intended site to confirm availability, cost and coverage, and don’t forget to bring your insurance card if you’re going somewhere new. If you’re moving to a new state, bring immunization records with you, too.

It’s worth mentioning that prescription requirements and pharmacy rules can vary by state. Any questions you have can be answered by your family physician, as it’s always a good idea to review recommendations with them before you get your shot.

Understanding respiratory vaccine side effects

Side effects of respiratory vaccines are usually mild and go away on their own. Here are a few common side effects that I’ve heard my patients experience:

• Sore arm near the injection site.
• Fatigue and tiredness.
• Muscle or joint aches.
• Consistent headache.
• Low-grade fever.

These symptoms are a sign that your body is responding to the immunization. If you have questions about side effects, have had a reaction to a vaccine before or know you’re allergic to common vaccine ingredients, talk with your family doctor before you get your shot.

How to get vaccinated without health insurance

Patients sometimes assume they can’t get vaccinated if they don’t have health insurance, but they often have more options available than they realize. In my work with community health centers, I’ve come across initiatives that help cover the cost of vaccines for uninsured patients. Your local pharmacy may also be able to connect you with low- or no-cost vaccines.

Protect yourself and your family this respiratory virus season

While vaccines may not completely prevent illness, getting immunized can lower your risk of getting seriously sick. But what’s more, it can also create an extra layer of protection for the people around you, including infants, adults older than 65 and anyone with complex medical conditions.

When possible, I encourage families to make a vaccine plan together. Getting your shots during the same visit can make the process less stressful and easier to stay on top of.

Talk with your family doctor about your fall vaccines

The best way to understand how to approach respiratory vaccine season is by speaking with your family doctor. Bring any questions you have about timing, coverage and vaccine choices and they can help you protect yourself and those around you.

Whatever you can do to make your experience easier, do it. Make a plan, get vaccinated and tell your family doctor.