RoxanneWant to kill two birds with one stone so you can save gas on extra trips? Get your flu shot at the grocery store or while shopping at your favorite retailer. Now’s the time to do so, as the flu will probably stick around until April or May.
While some people feel like the flu shot isn’t worth it, you can get it for free if you have health insurance. And if you do get it, you can help prevent the flu or lessen your symptoms if you get sick. Both of those benefits make the vaccination worth your time, as you could miss work if the flu hits, which could result in a loss of income, a need to visit the doctor, having to buy medicine, etc.
Getting Your Flu Shot at a Retailer or Grocery Store
When you think of getting a vaccine, you probably have a trip to the doctor’s office in mind.
However, with the flu shot, that’s not necessary, as there are options all around you that can strengthen your defenses.
As mentioned, flu shots are often free as long as you have health insurance. But if you don’t, you can still get vaccinated without having to spend a pretty penny in some of the following locations. If you’re low on cash, call them first to see what they charge for those without insurance:
- Target – Accepts both walk-ins and appointments for flu shots.
- Walmart – Use the Walmart mobile app to schedule your appointment.
- Publix – Both walk-ins and appointments (via their website) are okay.
- Costco – No insurance? Get your flu shot here for as little as $19.99.
- Safeway – You can get a 10 percent discount on your next shopping trip with a flu shot from Safeway.
- Kroger – Their pharmacy offers the flu vaccine via appointment.
Other Flu Shot Options
The VaccineFinder website is an excellent tool for finding vaccination spots near you. Here are other places besides retailers and grocery stores that offer free or low-cost flu shots:
Pharmacies
As expected, large pharmacy chains offer flu vaccines. If you don’t have insurance, Rite Aid can get you vaccinated against the flu for $39.99. Walgreens offers flu shots by appointment or walk-in. And CVS is vaccinating through their standard locations and Minute Clinics.
Community Health Centers
If you want to get your flu shot but don’t have insurance and are low on cash, use this site to find your nearest community health center. They may offer complimentary flu vaccines regardless of insurance.
Doctors and Urgent Care Clinics
Both tend to offer flu shots that are free or affordable. Call beforehand to see what they charge for the visit, however.
Work and College Campuses
You may find on-site vaccinations at your workplace or on your college campus if you’re a student.
For Veterans
If you’re in the VA healthcare system, you can use your veteran status to get free flu vaccinations at urgent care clinics, in-network pharmacies, or VA healthcare facilities.
