Immunizations

Immunizations, like the annual flu shot, help protect you and your loved ones from illness. Learn why vaccination matters, who should get vaccinated, and how to stay up to date.

Staying up to date on immunizations is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect yourself, your family and the community. Vaccines help your body build natural defenses against illnesses such as influenza. Each year, the flu shot is recommended for nearly everyone 6 months and older, and it’s especially important for people at higher risk for complications — including young children, older adults, pregnant women and individuals with chronic health conditions.

Getting a flu shot each year lowers your risk of getting sick, reduces the chances of spreading the flu to others and helps ease the strain on hospitals and clinics, particularly during seasons when viruses like COVID-19 are also circulating. The flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. While mild side effects can occur, the benefits of vaccination extend well beyond individual protection.

TidalHealth makes it easy to stay current on immunizations by offering seasonal flu shots and providing guidance for anyone with questions about vaccines. Immunizations support not only your health, but the health of those around you.

Ways to Receive Your Vaccines

TidalHealth offers several convenient options to help you and your family stay up to date on flu shots and other recommended vaccines.

  • Community Clinics:
    TidalHealth hosts free flu clinics each fall for individuals of various ages. A parent or guardian must provide consent for anyone under 18.
  • Primary Care Offices:
    Patients visiting a primary care location can schedule a flu shot directly with their practitioner.
  • Community Pharmacies:
    Flu shots are available at TidalHealth's community pharmacies. Hours may vary, so it’s best to call ahead.
  • New Patients:
    If you're not yet a patient at a TidalHealth Primaruy Car office, you can schedule a new appointment online to access routine immunizations and other preventive care in the future.

If you have questions about vaccine options, clinic availability or how to start the process, TidalHealth’s Community Wellness Department can help. Your healthcare team can also recommend vaccines based on your age and health needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Immunizations

What is the flu?
Influenza, or the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may lead to hospitalization.

How is the flu different from a cold?
Both are respiratory illnesses, but the flu typically causes more intense symptoms that appear suddenly, such as fever, fatigue, body aches and cough.

What is a flu shot?
A flu shot is a vaccine that helps your body create antibodies that protect against influenza. It uses inactivated or weakened virus components that cannot cause the flu.

Who should get a flu shot?
The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for nearly everyone 6 months and older. It’s especially important for young children, older adults, pregnant women and individuals with certain medical conditions.

When is the best time to get vaccinated?
Early fall is ideal, but vaccination later in the season still offers helpful protection.

Is it ever too late to get the flu shot?
No. As long as the flu is circulating, getting vaccinated is worthwhile.

Can the flu shot give me the flu?
No. The viruses in the vaccine are inactive or significantly weakened. You may have mild soreness or a low-grade fever, but these effects are not the flu.

Can I get a flu shot if I'm already sick?
It’s best to wait until you recover before getting vaccinated.

How effective is the flu vaccine?
Effectiveness varies each year depending on how well the vaccine matches circulating strains, but vaccination remains the most reliable way to reduce flu-related illness and complications.

What are common flu symptoms?
Symptoms may include fever, cough, sore throat, headaches, fatigue, chills and body aches. Children may also experience nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

How long does flu shot protection last?
Protection typically lasts throughout the flu season, though immunity can decrease over time. This is why annual vaccination is recommended.

Are there side effects?
Side effects are usually mild and may include arm soreness, headache or tiredness. Serious reactions are rare. Your practitioner can help address any concerns or allergies.

How long until the vaccine becomes effective?
It takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to build full immunity.

Why is the flu shot important when other respiratory illnesses, like COVID-19, are circulating?
Vaccination helps reduce the spread of illness, protects vulnerable individuals and preserves healthcare resources during times when multiple viruses may be active.