Flu Shots
No one likes getting sick. And the flu virus changes every year. So, getting a yearly shot helps protect yourself and those around you.
The flu shot is a good idea for just about everyone. But these people are at an even higher risk of health problems from the flu:
- Pregnant Moms
Pregnancy can put you at higher risk for getting the flu and put your unborn baby at risk, too. But getting a flu shot can help protect you and your baby. - Children and Families
Young children have a higher risk of health problems from the flu. Newborns are also at a high risk but can’t get the flu shot until they are six months old. - People with a Chronic Condition or Caregivers
People with a weakened immune system are more likely to get very ill from the flu. Getting your yearly flu shot helps protect yourself and those around you. - Seniors or Those Who Care for Them
Our immune defenses weaken with age. And people age 65 and older are at a higher risk for health issues from the flu. If you’re a senior or live with seniors, a flu shot will help protect you all.
Common Questions about the Flu
- Flu viruses are always changing. Scientists predict which virus will be most common each year. Flu vaccines are changed each flu season to make them work as well as possible.
- Your protection with the flu shot gets weaker over time. That's why a yearly flu shot is needed to keep you from getting sick.
No. The flu vaccine is made from either inactive flu virus or none at all. That means getting a flu shot cannot give you the flu. But it can reduce your chances of catching the flu.
- You should get a flu shot before the flu starts spreading where you live. Fall is the best time to get your yearly shot. If possible, get the shot by the end of October.
- You can get your flu shot in many doctor's offices. You may also get it in pharmacies, clinics, and health centers.
The flu is different from a cold. The flu usually comes on suddenly. People who have the flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea. This is more common in children than adults.
Visit your doctor or urgent care or call the nurse advice line with any health questions. Unless you have a very high fever or trouble breathing, you should not need to go to the emergency room for the flu.
All Health Net members are encouraged to go to their doctor's office for their annual flu shot.
Find a Doctor or Pharmacy* near you to get your flu shot.
You can obtain your flu shot at your doctor's office. Check your plan coverage to find out if the flu shot is covered at a contracted retail pharmacy or CVS MinuteClinic®.
If you have an Individual or Family plan, see flu shot information here.
If you have an Employer plan
*If you get your flu shot and pay out-of-pocket, Health Net can help with reimbursement.
Download and complete the form under "Claims" and mail it back to Health Net.
If you have a Medi-Cal plan
**Under Filter by Type of Plan/Network, please select: State Health Plan: Medi-Cal
***Only members 19 or older can receive the flu vaccine at a pharmacy. Members age 0–18 should see their Primary Care Provider for their flu shots.
