How Long to Wait Between COVID & Flu Vaccines
Written by Leslie K. Hughes
The introduction of the COVID vaccine has brought with it many questions. How does it work? Is it safe? Should I get the vaccine even if I’ve already had COVID? And so many more.
However, there is one question that seems to be popping up more frequently now: can I get the COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines at the same time? This question more often than not refers to how long you should wait between getting the COVID and flu vaccines.
Initially, it was recommended that people wait two weeks between the two different vaccinations, or the COVID vaccine and any other shots (including ones for tetanus and pneumonia).
However, further studies have been done that look into how the COVID vaccine works with others, how two of them react when given at approximately the same time. And, that research has shown that it is safe to get both the flu vaccine and the COVID vaccine at the same time.
Though spacing of the COVID vaccine and flu vaccine seems like it should be a while, the CDC states the “COVID-19 vaccines may be coadministered with other vaccines – on the same day, as well as within 14 days of each other.”
If you do not suffer from any major health issues, then your immune system should be strong enough to handle the COVID vaccine along with any other shots you may need to get at the same time.
It is important that you still get the COVID vaccine and the flu shot because the former will not protect you from the latter, or vice versa. They are two different viruses, thus the vaccines that were created to help fight these two viruses are different.
One day we may have a combined vaccine that can take care of COVID and the flu with one shot, but for now, it is safe for you to get the two separate vaccines at the same time.
If you are looking to get a COVID vaccine, Sameday Health is currently vaccinating in Virginia and New York.
Here are the simple steps you can take to get your COVID vaccine with Sameday Health:
Head to our website, choose the time slot that works for you and book your appointment
Arrive at the Sameday vaccination site
Check in using your ID and unique QR code
Receive your vaccine record card via email
