Can you get the flu and COVID vaccine at the same time?

With respiratory virus season upon us, many parents are trying to do everything they can to keep their children healthy, which includes scheduling their annual flu and COVID vaccinations.

But can you get these vaccines at the same appointment, or do you need to schedule them separately?

“It is perfectly safe to receive the flu vaccine and COVID booster at the same time,” says Dr. Shrinal Vyas, a pediatrician at Advocate Children’s Hospital. “However, if you’re worried about your child’s reaction to one or both of the vaccines, they can also be done at two different visits.”

Some children and adults experience mild side effects from one or both vaccines, which can include chills, redness or pain at the injection site, muscle aches and fever.

“These side effects are a normal response. The immune system is reacting to the vaccine and turning on. They should resolve within a day or two after vaccination,” explains Dr. Vyas.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends children over 6 months of age receive both the flu and COVID vaccines. But each year, many parents opt to skip these vaccinations.

“I highly recommend all eligible children receive both the flu and COVID shot this season,” urges Dr. Vyas. “These illnesses are far more dangerous for children than the common cold and can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia and myocarditis — inflammation of the heart muscle. Remember that both vaccines don’t provide immediate protection, so the sooner you can get your child into the pediatrician, the better. Making sure your child receives the flu and COVID vaccinations is an important step in keeping your family and community healthy.”

If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to your child’s pediatrician.

Are you trying to find a pediatrician? Find one in Illinois or Wisconsin.