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Flu and COVID-19 vaccine facts: What you need to know

Published Date
Author Swedish Health Team

[5 MIN READ]

Key takeaways:

  • Check out information from trusted sources that can help you prepare for the flu season in the midst of the continuing COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Getting vaccinated for the flu and for COVID-19 offers the highest level of protection available against both diseases, especially if you were to contract them at the same time.
  • Information about city, county and state COVID-19 testing sites.  

We're in our third cold and flu season with COVID-19. With each new variant and record breaking  infection rates, vaccination remains one of the primary ways we can protect ourselves, our families and our communities.

Experts continue to urge everyone who is eligible and able to get vaccinated against both COVID-19 and the flu to keep your immune system in fighting order should you contract one or both of these diseases at the same time. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states it is safe to get both vaccines at once.

We’ve put together a handy list of resources to answer your questions and give you the knowledge you need to get through the upcoming flu season in good health.

What are your symptoms?

When seasonal illness sets in, it won't always be clear which infection you're dealing with. Check your symptoms against the chart below. 

Vaccinations

Vaccines teach your body to recognize new diseases and prompt your immune system to fight off infection. They are a vital component of keeping you, your family and your community safe and healthy.

Flu shots

It’s easy to dismiss flu season and minimize its serious threat to your health. After all, it’s “just the flu,” right? Not even close.

Influenza is commonly called the flu. You may think it’s an unpleasant but relatively harmless illness that goes away if you consume enough chicken soup and Netflix. But it’s a potentially serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and even death in the most severe cases. And remember, if you’re fighting off the flu, your immune system will be less prepared to battle COVID-19 should you contract it. Here are some resources from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about the flu and COVID-19 vaccines to help keep you safe and healthy. You can also check out these flu vaccine facts from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. 

COVID-19 vaccine

If you are eligible and able to get vaccinated against COVID-19,  you should do so. Use this simple locator tool to schedule your vaccine to protect yourself and others.

Learn more below about the vaccine’s safety and efficacy and guidelines for staying safe if you’re already vaccinated.

The CDC site ‘Key things to know about COVID-19 vaccines’ outlines what we know and what we’re still learning about vaccines, their safety and how effective they are at preventing infection. You can also get answers about a wide range of vaccine-related topics, including how to prepare for your vaccine, effectiveness, myths and facts and guidance for staying safe if you’re already vaccinated.

FDA authorization

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) site ‘COVID-19 vaccines’ gives you the lowdown on authorization with news, updates, podcasts and online videos. You can also learn more about the path the vaccines are taking toward authorization in our blog, FDA formally approves Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.

You can learn more about the boosters, eligibility and availability in our blog post, COVID-19 vaccines: FDA approval, boosters and third dose for immunocompromised.

Protection for kids, parents-to-be and high-risk groups

Trying to navigate a pandemic and flu season while juggling the needs of your household or managing a challenging health condition can be stressful and overwhelming at times. These resources can point you in the right direction to get the support you need.

Vaccines for kids

Vaccines for pregnant women

Vaccines for high-risk groups

Certain groups are at higher risk of complications from the flu and COVID-19 flu according to the CDC. Without a flu shot or COVID-19 vaccine, people over the age of 65 or with underlying conditions who get infected are more likely to experience more severe symptoms that present a serious threat to their health. See the below vaccine information and resources for:

Where can I get vaccinated?

Where can I get tested for COVID-19? 

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Find a doctor

Whether you require an in-person visit or want to consult with a doctor or specialist virtually, you have options. Swedish Virtual Care connects you face-to-face with a nurse practitioner who can review your symptoms, provide instruction and follow-up as needed. If you need to find a physician, caregiver or advanced care practitioner, you can use our provider directory.

Find out the latest updates on how we’re handling COVID-19.

Related resources

It’s flu season

What do I need to know about the omicron variant? Advice from Swedish caregivers to help you stay safe.

Keep kids healthy, safe with recommended vaccines

FDA and CDC endorse COVID-19 vaccine booster for all adults 18 and older (swedish.org)

CDC report shows COVID-19 vaccines may be given with flu vaccines

Do I have a cold or the flu?

This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

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