Flu Vaccines in Buncombe County

This year, it is especially important to get immunized against the flu as the COVID-19 virus continues to spread through our community. People who get sick with the flu are at an increased risk of contracting COVID-19 and experiencing severe illness and other health consequences. Getting immunized against the flu in combination with the COVID-19 vaccine is your best chance at protecting yourself and your loved ones. Be ready for whatever comes your way by getting a flu shot today!

Influenza vaccines (aka: flu shots) are made to protect you from the four most common influenza viruses for the 2021-2022 flu season. Every flu season is different and the illness can have varying impacts on people, sometimes resulting in hospitalization and even death. Click here to learn more about the 2021-2022 flu season.

How do they work?

Flu vaccines work with your body to develop antibodies about two weeks after vaccination. The antibodies main function is to protect you against various circulating flu viruses. Flu vaccines in the United States are all quadrivalent, meaning they protect against the following four flu viruses: influenza A (H1N1), influenza A (H3N2), and two influenza B viruses. 

Who should get the vaccine?

Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every year. A flu shot is particularly important for people who are at a higher risk of developing serious flu complications, including but not limited to: adults 65 years and older, adults with chronic health conditions, and young children. Click here to learn more about who is at higher risk of flu complications.

When should I get vaccinated?

Getting vaccinated in September and October, before flu season begins, is optimal. However, it is not too late to get a vaccine as the flu most commonly peaks in February and can continue with substantial activity until May. Remember, it takes about two weeks for antibodies to develop and for the vaccine to reach peak effectiveness. It is also important to know that you can get the flu vaccine at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine. Ask a medical provider if you have questions about getting both vaccines at the same time.

What are the benefits of the flu vaccine?

Primarily, the flu shot can keep you from getting sick with the flu. Even if you do get the flu after being vaccinated, it protects you from severe illness and flu-associated hospitalization. Flu vaccination also helps to defend vulnerable populations in our community, including pregnant people during and after pregnancy, people with chronic health conditions and young children.

Where can I get a flu vaccine?

We offer two options for getting your immunizations at our clinic at 40 Coxe Avenue. First, you can call (828) 250-5096 and make an appointment that fits your schedule. We also offer a wide range of walk-in hours for your convenience. Walk-in hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday between 8-11:30 a.m. and on Tuesday and Thursday between 1-4:30 p.m. 

Flu vaccines are also widely available in Buncombe County at doctor’s offices, pharmacies, urgent care clinics, etc. Click here to find a flu vaccine near you.