Give It a Shot
Peak time for seasonal flu in the United States generally falls in January or February, but activity can erupt as early as October in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone over the age of 6 months get a dose of the influenza vaccine to avoid getting sick. Under the Affordable Care Act, all marketplace insurance plans must cover the cost of the vaccine — although some set limitations on where the shots are administered. Flu shots are also free under Medicare and many other health plans.
For families without health insurance coverage, flu shots from a doctor's office can be costly, and generally cheaper trivalent vaccines have all but disappeared in favor of quadrivalent vaccines, which protect against four strains of influenza instead of three. To help you find the cheapest place to get a flu shot, Cheapism checked vaccination prices at some of the country's largest pharmacy chains, as well as Costco and Sam's Club, which are known for low prices and allow non-members to use their pharmacies. The survey was conducted in late September; and prices, services, and availability may vary by location.
Related: 15 Simple Ways to Protect Against Colds and Flu This Season
