You asked, we answered: Can I get the flu shot at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine?

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Question: 

Can I get the flu shot at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine? 

Answer from infectious diseases expert: Angela Hewlett, MD

Yes, flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be given at the same visit if you’re due for both vaccines. 

"Many people have stopped taking prevention measures like wearing masks and avoiding large, crowded indoor spaces, which allows the flu and COVID-19 to spread easily throughout our community," says infectious diseases expert Angela Hewlett, MD. "To protect yourself and those around you, you should get vaccinated for COVID-19 and the flu." 

Studies conducted throughout the COVID-19 pandemic show it’s safe to get both a flu vaccine and a COVID-19 vaccine at the same visit. You can get both vaccines in the same arm (at least an inch apart) or get them in different arms. Either is OK. 

People who get a flu vaccine and an mRNA COVID-19 booster vaccine at the same time may be slightly more likely to have reactions including fatigue, headache and muscle aches. Still, these reactions are typically mild and should go away quickly. 

Get the latest fact-checked information on COVID-19 vaccines and Nebraska Medicine vaccine locations.