Flu season is just around the corner and with doctors still battling the covid-19 pandemic, they’re urging people to go get their flu vaccine! Getting vaccinated significantly reduces your risk of contracting and spreading the flu. If you do get the flu, your symptoms should be less severe and last a shorter period of time. Every patient is different and has different needs, so why would there only be one type of flu vaccine available? Let’s take a quick look at the different types of flu vaccines available this year! 

Types of Flu Vaccines

Most people assume there’s only one type of flu vaccine, but that couldn’t be further from the truth! There are types of flu vaccines for everyone ranging from 6 months of age and up, including pregnant women. 

• Recombinant flu vaccine: a recombinant flu vaccine is a version of the vaccine that is made without common allergens. Chicken eggs and live cells are used in other versions of the vaccine, which has negative effects on allergy sufferers. 
• Cell-based flu vaccine: the cultures for this vaccine are grown in cells of mammalian origin, so it does not contain chicken eggs, but it does contain live cells. 
• High-dose flu vaccine: the high-dose flu vaccine is designed specifically for people that are 65 years old or older. This vaccine is stronger than a traditional flu shot and offers added protection for one of the most vulnerable age groups. 
• Quadrivalent flu vaccine: this flu vaccine protects against 2 types of flu type-A and two types of flu type-B, while traditional flu vaccines only protect against 3 types of the flu, this protects against 4 in total. 
• Nasal spray: if you have a fear of needles or have a child who doesn’t want to get a shot, the nasal spray vaccine is a great choice. The flu vaccine is administered through a nasal spray with no needles used. 
• Jet injector: jet injector vaccines are given using a high-pressured thin stream of liquid, rather than a hypodermic needle. Jet injector vaccines are only approved for use from 18-64 years old. 
• Traditional vaccine: the standard flu vaccine is given through a hypodermic needle and is approved for anyone over 6 months of age. This is the most widely accessible type of the vaccine, although it may not be the best choice for people with allergies or those over 65 years of age. 

Getting Vaccinated

Flu vaccines are covered under most major insurance companies. When you get vaccinated, you should experience little to no side effects. The best place to go for a quick and convenient flu vaccine is your local urgent care center. Speak with the staff to determine which version of the vaccine is best for you. The physician will discuss your options, potential side effects, and administer the vaccine. 

If you have any questions or concerns about getting vaccinated, contact your local urgent care center today for more information! You can also visit AFC Urgent Care Fairfield to walk-in for your flu shot!