Flu Shots Now Available

[retiredguy123]

Flu shots are now available. I got mine yesterday at Publix. It may be a little early, but I figured that they may become harder to get than toilet paper was a few months ago. Also, there was a severe shortage of the Shingrix vaccine last year. Who is getting the flu shot?

[Stu from NYC]

We will figure we will wait for our next DR appt in October assuming it is a real visit.

[billethkid]

We will get ours the next time a Rx is due to pick up.

[bagboy]

My wife got shot one of Shingrix this week at Walgreens. Good Rx coupon saved us $27.00. The pharmacist said the flu shots were arriving this week. I think this year sooner is better for getting the flu shot. BTW, the pharmacist said it's safe to get Shingrix, then flu shot, then Shingrix 2, and still be able to get a Covid vaccination when they become available.

[Two Bills]

Did you check that no tracking device was injected at the same time?
Can't be to carefull these days!!:icon_wink:

[manaboutown]

As I understand it flu shots are effective only over a certain time span so I usually get mine in late September. Last year I got a pneumonia shot at the same time. No problem.

[Bjeanj]

As I understand it flu shots are effective only over a certain time span so I usually get mine in late September. Last year I got a pneumonia shot at the same time. No problem.

This is what I also heard. Would love for a doctor/retired doctor to comment on this. I usually get my flu shot Oct. 1; I didn’t think about possible shortages.

[billethkid]

This is what I also heard. Would love for a doctor/retired doctor to comment on this. I usually get my flu shot Oct. 1; I didn’t think about possible shortages.

SHORTAGES?
Who said shortages?
That will get a villages resident stampede started!!!
There is no more shortage than there has been the last few years....NONE.
Any given location may run out....until they get their next delivery. Results have been more vaccine than those who get the shot.

Less than 50% of population gets flu shots. Last year 162-169 million doses prepared.

[retiredguy123]

SHORTAGES?
Who said shortages?
That will get a villages resident stampede started!!!
There is no more shortage than there has been the last few years....NONE.
Any given location may run out....until they get their next delivery. Results have been more vaccine than those who get the shot.

Less than 50% of population gets flu shots. Last year 162-169 million doses prepared.
I don't want to start a stampede. I don't know anything about a shortage. But, I do know that, when the new Shingles vaccine came out, it was readily available, and I got it immediately. No waiting. But, within a few months, there was a 3 to 4 month waiting list for it. Apparently, companies who make these vaccines don't know what the demand will be.

[bagboy]

Good points and questions about the flu shot. It appears that the vaccine lasts approximately 6 months, and the CDC recommends a late October dosage time. So my sooner rather than later comment has changed. One can quickly find information about this online.

[golfing eagles]

This is what I also heard. Would love for a doctor/retired doctor to comment on this. I usually get my flu shot Oct. 1; I didn’t think about possible shortages.

I don't want to start a stampede. I don't know anything about a shortage. But, I do know that, when the new Shingles vaccine came out, it was readily available, and I got it immediately. No waiting. But, within a few months, there was a 3 to 4 month waiting list for it. Apparently, companies who make these vaccines don't know what the demand will be.

Yes, there is a time limit on the efficacy of seasonal flu vaccine, about 6 months. Waiting until late sept. is a good strategy in cold climates, but here in Florida the flu season tends to end a bit earlier, and it is better to be protected in Dec-Feb than to worry about late April.

As far as the shingles vaccine goes, there are occasional shortages, but the reason is that the process is very similar to manufacturing chicken pox vaccine for kids. So the decision was mad to give the kids priority leading to some periods of backorder for shingles vaccine

[retiredguy123]

Good points and questions about the flu shot. It appears that the vaccine lasts approximately 6 months, and the CDC recommends a late October dosage time. So my sooner rather than later comment has changed. One can quickly find information about this online.
Just to clarify, the CDC has not yet made official recommendations for the 2020-2021 flu season vaccine, but they don't anticipate any major changes from last year's recommendations. Last year, they recommended getting the shot by the end of October, but that September and October were good times to get it.

[JoMar]

And there are a couple weeks before the vaccine takes effect. Our plan is Sept - Oct since the season runs through first quarter of next year.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I don't want to start a stampede. I don't know anything about a shortage. But, I do know that, when the new Shingles vaccine came out, it was readily available, and I got it immediately. No waiting. But, within a few months, there was a 3 to 4 month waiting list for it. Apparently, companies who make these vaccines don't know what the demand will be.

That's the problem. Vaccines have a shelf life. Each vaccine's shelf life is different. If the demand doesn't meat the availability, they have to destroy the leftovers. It can't be used, at all. That drives the costs up. So they figure out the low-end of what they think they'll need and watch the early trends. If they see the supply running low, they rush to make more. But it still takes time to make more and distribute it all.

I'd personally rather wait a couple months for something, than get it tomorrow and pay another $500 just for the privilege.

[bowlingal]

do they still offer the $10 gift card?

[MandoMan]

Flu shots are now available. I got mine yesterday at Publix. It may be a little early, but I figured that they may become harder to get than toilet paper was a few months ago. Also, there was a severe shortage of the Shingrix vaccine last year. Who is getting the flu shot?

I got my second shingles vaccine last week, so I’ll wait a few more before getting the flu vaccine. The CDC says there is some evidence that people with up to date vaccines of this sort have, shall we say, more alert immune systems that work better to stop Covid-19 if it attacks.

[Dana1963]

The best time to get your flu shot is from early September to late October. This timing offers you and your loved ones maximum protection for the duration of the flu season. The vaccine is safe for most people.Jul 8, 2020 CDC

[CS1987]

I got my second shingles vaccine last week, so I’ll wait a few more before getting the flu vaccine. The CDC says there is some evidence that people with up to date vaccines of this sort have, shall we say, more alert immune systems that work better to stop Covid-19 if it attacks.

As to flu shot helping against covid19: I read reports early on that outcomes for people infected with covid19 seemed to be worse in people who had the flu shot due to something called "virus interference". I also imagine that all nursing home residents receive a flu shot yet they have been harshly affected by covid19.

[wiltma]

This is what I also heard. Would love for a doctor/retired doctor to comment on this. I usually get my flu shot Oct. 1; I didn’t think about possible shortages.

Saw doc yesterday and she said get it early October

[retiredguy123]

do they still offer the $10 gift card?
Yes, I got a 10 dollar gift card at Publix.

[coconutmama]

My wife got shot one of Shingrix this week at Walgreens. Good Rx coupon saved us $27.00. The pharmacist said the flu shots were arriving this week. I think this year sooner is better for getting the flu shot. BTW, the pharmacist said it's safe to get Shingrix, then flu shot, then Shingrix 2, and still be able to get a Covid vaccination when they
become available.

Thank you! Mind sharing how much the Shingrix shot cost with the Good RX coupon? We paid $45 with our insurance.

[BFISHER54]

The CDC recommends waiting until September/October, especially for older people, in order to ensure that the effects last the entire flu season.

[Beachykeengifts]

The CDC website says the flu vaccine will not be available this year until September. Maybe you got a leftover from last year?

[Rsenholzi]

My dr up north told me not to get one till the beginning of Oct. He said if you get it before then, it will not cover you through Flu season.

[retiredguy123]

The CDC website says the flu vaccine will not be available this year until September. Maybe you got a leftover from last year?
I hope not. Both Walgreens and Publix told me that they had just received the new vaccine. Sam's Club also notified me that they were getting the flu vaccine this week.

[Tankerrich]

If you have Tricare For Life (TFL) and on medicare, the shingle shot is FREE. Fot mine last year at Walgrens in Lauderdale by the Sea

[Bay Kid]

Got my 1st flu shot in years last year even though I hadn't had the flu in years. A month or so later I had the worst flu ever, or at least that I remember. I think I will take my chance this year without drugs.

[Singerlady]

I don't want to start a stampede. I don't know anything about a shortage. But, I do know that, when the new Shingles vaccine came out, it was readily available, and I got it immediately. No waiting. But, within a few months, there was a 3 to 4 month waiting list for it. Apparently, companies who make these vaccines don't know what the demand will be.
My PCP said the shortage for Shingrix was mainly due to the fact of the volume of older population. The drug companies sent just so much to each pharmacy/state/doctor. We’re overpopulated with who needs them. She said if we just happened to travel at that time, out of state, to get it if we could.

[Miguel 1952]

Thank you! Mind sharing how much the Shingrix shot cost with the Good RX coupon? We paid $45 with our insurance.

Is Shingrix covered by Medicare? TIA

[retiredguy123]

Is Shingrix covered by Medicare? TIA
No, Shingrix is not covered by Medicare Part B. If you don't have other insurance, you will probably pay about $160 per shot for each shot. You need to get two shots between 2 and 6 months apart.

[wamley]

My PC Dr recommended mid Oct and not to get flu shot earlier.

[bjd0105]

No it is not. Medical and prescription covers it. I'm a pharmacy technician for CVS located inside Target.

[CWGUY]

No, Shingrix is not covered by Medicare.

:) Fortunately Mrs. Guy and myself were covered by our Medicare Advantage Plan. We did have a co-pay of $1.00 for each shot.

[theruizs]

I don't want to start a stampede. I don't know anything about a shortage. But, I do know that, when the new Shingles vaccine came out, it was readily available, and I got it immediately. No waiting. But, within a few months, there was a 3 to 4 month waiting list for it. Apparently, companies who make these vaccines don't know what the demand will be.

They are two very different vaccines with different needs and availabilities. Manf. know that people of all ages are going to want the flu vaccine and prepare accordingly. Shingrix is mostly only for older adults. So a shortage of the latter has nothing to do with the former. Starting threads with talk about shortages in this current environment is not a responsible thing to do.

[bjd0105]

I'm a pharmacy technician for 12 years now and I get my flu shot as soon as we get them in. The shot last for about 9 months so there is no such thing as getting it to early. There is such a thing as getting it to late. It takes a week to be come 100% effective. We have all shots available pneumonia, shingles, high dose flu shot, etc. We do give a $5 coupon for Target for the flu shot. No appointment needed so I hope to see you soon.

[bagboy]

Thank you! Mind sharing how much the Shingrix shot cost with the Good RX coupon? We paid $45 with our insurance.

You did great. My wife has Medicare and plan F supplement from Florida Blue, neither would pay for the vaccine. Walgreens price was $182, Goodrx brought it down to $155.

[Barefoot]

...

[Byte1]

I am surprised that no one on here suggested that they MANDATE flu shots for all.
Last flu shot I had was over 50 years ago. Never had the flu. I use the wipes provided at the stores to wipe down the shopping cart and I wash my hands frequently during the day. No flu and no colds. But, thank you for getting the flu shot. It means you won't get last year's flu.

[Barefoot]

I'm a pharmacy technician for 12 years now and I get my flu shot as soon as we get them in. The shot last for about 9 months so there is no such thing as getting it too early.Orange Blossom Baby says "by the end of flu season you'll have been vaccinated for 7 months; and your vaccine will be less than 50% as potent as it was when you got it."

But she goes on to say: "If the CDC says this year's going to be an early season - then get it ASAP. It really depends on the year."

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Special snowflakes who never get sick and never get vaccines aside...

The flu vaccines are year-specific. Last year the CDC recommended holding off a little while to get it, because they were expecting the season to start late. The vaccines don't just have a shelf life (how long they can stay in the vial before it has to be thrown away) but they also have a half-life (how long it takes to wear off in your body until it's only 50% as effective as it was when it was injected).

Yes it can last up to 9 months. But it starts losing its effectiveness several months sooner than that. If the flu season is expected to begin in November, and last as late as March, and you get the shot this week - in mid August..

It means it'll be 2 months in when flu season starts. By the end of flu season you'll have been vaccinated for 7 months and your vaccine will be less than 50% as potent as it was when you got it.

If you wait til September or early October, you stand a much better chance of enduring the flu for the entire season.

ON THE OTHER HAND - if the CDC says this year's going to be an early season - then get it ASAP.

It really depends on the year.

[Sparty6971]

My wife got shot one of Shingrix this week at Walgreens. Good Rx coupon saved us $27.00. The pharmacist said the flu shots were arriving this week. I think this year sooner is better for getting the flu shot. BTW, the pharmacist said it's safe to get Shingrix, then flu shot, then Shingrix 2, and still be able to get a Covid vaccination when they become available.

That's exactly what I initiated yesterday with Shingrix #1. Flu shot end of Sept or 1st week of Oct. Then Shingrix #2 on/after 14 October. Hopefully there will be a Covid vaccine available sometime in the late fall. Walgreens pharacist/shot-person that schedule is her plan as well (except she's already done the Shingrix). She was more than willing to give me the flu shot yesterday but thought it was just a wee-bit early. To each there own of course - good idea to get one when it's convenient, not after the flu has already started making it's rounds of TV.

[retiredguy123]

They are two very different vaccines with different needs and availabilities. Manf. know that people of all ages are going to want the flu vaccine and prepare accordingly. Shingrix is mostly only for older adults. So a shortage of the latter has nothing to do with the former. Starting threads with talk about shortages in this current environment is not a responsible thing to do.
I didn't say there was a shortage. I have no evidence of a shortage. I made my own decision to get the shot, based on my own opinion and experience. Other people should make their decision on their own. Sorry if I confused or misled anyone.

[Dr. Rachel Friedman]

do they still offer the $10 gift card?

Yes, Publix is offering the $10 gift card again this year.

[Byte1]

Special snowflakes who never get sick and never get vaccines aside...

The flu vaccines are year-specific. Last year the CDC recommended holding off a little while to get it, because they were expecting the season to start late. The vaccines don't just have a shelf life (how long they can stay in the vial before it has to be thrown away) but they also have a half-life (how long it takes to wear off in your body until it's only 50% as effective as it was when it was injected).

Yes it can last up to 9 months. But it starts losing its effectiveness several months sooner than that. If the flu season is expected to begin in November, and last as late as March, and you get the shot this week - in mid August..

It means it'll be 2 months in when flu season starts. By the end of flu season you'll have been vaccinated for 7 months and your vaccine will be less than 50% as potent as it was when you got it.

If you wait til September or early October, you stand a much better chance of enduring the flu for the entire season.

ON THE OTHER HAND - if the CDC says this year's going to be an early season - then get it ASAP.

It really depends on the year.

"On the other hand" even if the shot is weak and may not even work for this year's flu, it makes folks feel all warm and fuzzy and SAFE, just like some of the worthless masks that I have seen folks wear. Happy people are healthy people. :a040:

[Barefoot]

...

[panamachica]

If we are socially distancing and wearing masks why would we need to get a flu shot? Just wondering.

[DonnaNi4os]

I get the flu shot every year but not until early to mid October. Getting it too soon can mean that if the flu arrives late in the season you might not have continuous benefits of being vaccinated. Being vaccinated after mid October doesn’t allow your body to produce enough antibodies to fully protect you should the flu hit early. I have administered hundreds and hundreds of flu vaccines over the years. And remember that if you are allergic to eggs you should not get the flu shot.

[newgirl]

Thank you

[manaboutown]

"Getting vaccinated early (for example, in July or August) is likely to be associated with reduced protection against flu infection later in the flu season, particularly among older adults."

From the CDC. Key Facts About Seasonal Flu Vaccine | CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/keyfacts.htm)

[La lamy]

If we are socially distancing and wearing masks why would we need to get a flu shot? Just wondering.

Because social distancing and masks are not a perfect method to stay virus free which I'm sure you've heard by now. I never had a flu shot, so I'm not one to recommend it, but if I was immune compromised I would.

[coconutmama]

Is Shingrix covered by Medicare? TIA

I have Medicare & still paid some of the cost. I forget how much the shot originally was before my payment. Sorry

[Mumbles]

That's the problem. Vaccines have a shelf life. Each vaccine's shelf life is different. If the demand doesn't meat the availability, they have to destroy the leftovers. It can't be used, at all. That drives the costs up. So they figure out the low-end of what they think they'll need and watch the early trends. If they see the supply running low, they rush to make more. But it still takes time to make more and distribute it all.

I'd personally rather wait a couple months for something, than get it tomorrow and pay another $500 just for the privilege.

Source of your astute knowledge?
Mumbles

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

"On the other hand" even if the shot is weak and may not even work for this year's flu, it makes folks feel all warm and fuzzy and SAFE, just like some of the worthless masks that I have seen folks wear. Happy people are healthy people. :a040:

The vaccine that you refuse to take is 100% guaranteed NOT to work for you. You will have [zero] prevention for this year's flu. And if by chance you happen to get it, you have [zero] chance to reduce the effects of it.

If you do take the vaccine, you have [better than zero] chance that it'll prevent you from getting sick, and if you happen to get sick anyway, you'll have [better than zero] chance that your symptoms will be minimal.

The odds are more in my favor by taking the vaccine, than not taking it. I prefer to hedge my bets. So I'll take the vaccine and hope I don't need it.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Source of your astute knowledge?
Mumbles

Ask the Experts about Influenza Vaccines - CDC experts answer Q&As (https://www.immunize.org/askexperts/experts_inf.asp)
How long does immunity from influenza vaccine last?
Protection from influenza vaccine is thought to persist for at least 6 months. Protection declines over time because of waning antibody levels and because of changes in circulating influenza viruses from year to year. For persons who require only 1 dose of influenza vaccine for the season, yearly vaccination (i.e. in July and August) is likely to be associated with suboptimal immunity before the end of the influenza season, particularly among older adults.
Combine with the poster who worked in a pharmacy and said the recent vaccines are good for 9 months. I was erring on the side of generosity rather than caution.

The CDC itself - Frequently Asked Influenza (Flu) Questions: 2020-2021 Season | CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/flu/season/faq-flu-season-2020-2021.htm)
While the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has not yet voted on the flu vaccine recommendations for 2020-2021, CDC does not anticipate a major change in the recommendation on timing of vaccination. Getting vaccinated in July or August is too early, especially for older people, because of the likelihood of reduced protection against flu infection later in the flu season. September and October are good times to get vaccinated. However, as long as flu viruses are circulating, vaccination should continue, even in January or later.

More from the CDC, specifically with regards to proper storage of vaccines and expiration dates:

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/pinkbook/downloads/vac-storage.pdf

There are dozens of sources for this information, but if you've ever actually READ your patient information pamphlet when you got a flu shot in the past, and actually spoke with a pharmacist, or worked in a pharmaceutical company at some point in your life, or learned a little about what a vaccine is made of - you'd already know this information and wouldn't need to cite a source.

Kind of like if you were to claim that the sky is blue and I asked you to cite a source. You don't need to prove that the sky is blue. It IS blue.

[retiredguy123]

Obviously, a lot of pharmacists don't agree with the CDC or they wouldn't be giving flu shots in August. But, it seems somewhat negligent that the flu vaccine is already on the market and the CDC doesn't even have an official recommendation, except to refer to last year's vaccine, which is different from this year.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Obviously, a lot of pharmacists don't agree with the CDC or they wouldn't be giving flu shots in August. But, it seems somewhat negligent that the flu vaccine is already on the market and the CDC doesn't even have an official recommendation, except to refer to last year's vaccine, which is different from this year.

The CDC and the FDA have released the shot effective today. The CDC recommends that certain people wait a month.

For everyone else, it's available.

I'm not seeing any contradiction at all. You just have to read the whole thing, not just the paragraphs that you agree with or want to challenge.

[retiredguy123]

The CDC and the FDA have released the shot effective today. The CDC recommends that certain people wait a month.

For everyone else, it's available.

I'm not seeing any contradiction at all. You just have to read the whole thing, not just the paragraphs that you agree with or want to challenge.
I do see a contradiction, and don't want to challenge anything. The flu vaccine came out on Thursday, not today. And, as of Thursday, CDC had no official recommendation about who should get it and when. I also didn't see any new guidance on the CDC website today. I called my pharmacist and he recommends getting the shot as soon as possible for people over 65. They have no special guidance about who should wait a month. If you have other guidance, it would be helpful if you can provide a link for your information source, especially about who these "certain people" are who should wait a month?

[Spsmith444]

My wife and I have never had a vaccine. We are not convinced we need them. We have practiced good common sense about what we touch, washing our hands regularly, and staying away from the sick. Now with COVID we see others are now doing for the most part what we have been practicing for years. Are we stupid and lucky?

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I do see a contradiction, and don't want to challenge anything. The flu vaccine came out on Thursday, not today. And, as of Thursday, CDC had no official recommendation about who should get it and when. I also didn't see any new guidance on the CDC website today. I called my pharmacist and he recommends getting the shot as soon as possible for people over 65. They have no special guidance about who should wait a month. If you have other guidance, it would be helpful if you can provide a link for your information source, especially about who these "certain people" are who should wait a month?

I already posted it, quoted the pertinent section, and linked you to the source. Here it is again (the quote):

While the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has not yet voted on the flu vaccine recommendations for 2020-2021, CDC does not anticipate a major change in the recommendation on timing of vaccination. Getting vaccinated in July or August is too early, especially for older people, because of the likelihood of reduced protection against flu infection later in the flu season. September and October are good times to get vaccinated. However, as long as flu viruses are circulating, vaccination should continue, even in January or later.

So, your previous post didn't single out any group, which was why I said that that it wasn't a contradiction for pharmacists to administer the shot early. They do - for some people. And that's what I said.

However, now you're being specific, and referring specifically to your pharmacist saying that older people should get it early. And to that, I say it IS a contradiction to what the CDC recommends, as already posted upthread.

[thelegges]

Don’t ever get them, never had the flu, I’m happy to let someone else have mine

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

My wife and I have never had a vaccine. We are not convinced we need them. We have practiced good common sense about what we touch, washing our hands regularly, and staying away from the sick. Now with COVID we see others are now doing for the most part what we have been practicing for years. Are we stupid and lucky?

You won't ever be convinced - unless you get sick. But by that point it'll be too late. I hope you don't ever get the flu. At the least, it's like a really bad cold. At the worst, it's deadly.

[thelegges]

You won't ever be convinced - unless you get sick. But by that point it'll be too late. I hope you don't ever get the flu. At the least, it's like a really bad cold. At the worst, it's deadly.

Not everyone can get a flu vaccine, I am anaphylactic, Haven’t ever had the flu, or a cold and yet still live.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Not everyone can get a flu vaccine, I am anaphylactic, Haven’t ever had the flu, or a cold and yet still live.

You're very fortunate.
I hope you also don't ever get the flu. And I'm also glad that by getting vaccinated, I am contributing to your good health by reducing the risk of giving it to you :)

[Mumbles]

The CDC website says the flu vaccine will not be available this year until September. Maybe you got a leftover from last year?

Perhaps the ones they got were taken from another doctor because any flu virus will expire before the year is up. That is to say, if the 2020 regular flu shot is given as early as September, chances are they won't be manufacturing it right through the year, or you'll get shots from another source. They can't use a previous one from 2019 because it has expired.

[retiredguy123]

I just want to clarify that the CDC has not issued official guidance for this year's flu vaccine, even though the vaccine has been delivered to pharmacists and they have already administered the shot to hundreds or thousands of people. What is the CDC waiting for? They are unofficially recommending that "older people" wait until September to get the vaccine. But, pharmacists in The Villages apparently don't agree wiith the CDC because they have ordered the high dose vaccine for people over 65, and are giving it to them, and are not telling them to wait until September. So, who do you believe? I guess it is up to every individual to make their own decision.

[Altavia]

Since social distancing has also decreased the incidence of upper respiratory infections, flu vaccinations may be even more important this year.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/1818228-post5.html

[Altavia]

Don’t ever get them, never had the flu, I’m happy to let someone else have mine

That's the position a good 55 yo friend of mine had. He was strong and healthy before the first time he got the flu.

Sadly his body over reacted him into penemonia and then sepsis. He died in the hospital 2 months later from multi organ failure. His family was devistated.

[Chi-Town]

The way I look at it is if you don't want to get a flu shot that's OK. I will be getting one,and if you come down with the flu it's not my problem. No big deal.

[DonnaNi4os]

Pharmacies like to give them early and offer incentives as does Publix. Ask any physician when the best time is to get a flu vaccine and they will tell you mid-October. There is science behind the timing.

[graciegirl]

If we are socially distancing and wearing masks why would we need to get a flu shot? Just wondering.

The vaccine currently being discussed in this thread is for the seasonal flu. The vaccine that is offered every year to protect us, at least partially from the ever changing bugs that start infecting us in the fall and usually peak in early winter. We have chosen to be immunized, on the advice of our physician for years. We are also immunized against three kinds of pneumonia and the shingles.(Herpes Zoster) Our very much younger grandchildren were given all vaccines against childhood diseases and against cervical cancer that can be given to both sexes now at age 12. We trust traditional medicine and our mothers who said an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

I am so sad and angry that undocumented rumors have shifted the previous prevailing use of immunization to a political battlefield.

[Byte1]

I am glad they have a flu shot for folks that want it. My wife gets it on the advice of her doctor. I haven't had a flu shot in 50 years and have never had the flu. My preference. If I get the flu and die it is of no consequence to anyone other than myself and maybe my family. No one expects to live forever and I am glad they don't. We are already over populating this planet so something has to thin out the herd. I don't care whether or not anyone else gets the shot. Pump all those drugs and crap into your body for all I care. Yes, I did get my free pneumonia shot before entering the hospital for an operation. And yes I did get the shingles shot when our neighbor that frequents our home had shingles. BUT, I have had childhood mumps, several different measles, as well as other childhood diseases. Traveling overseas for the gov. mandated that I have all kinds of plague shots as well as yellow fever, diphtheria, etc. I had rabies shots when I was bitten by a rat overseas. So, I am not adverse to required shots, but since I firmly believe that I don't get the flu and since I haven't even had a cold in over a decade, I won't get the flu shot. If I get the flu and die, you can say "I told you so" but it won't matter to me, will it? And I get my shots free, so it is not a matter of cost. I just don't see any reason to have that crap injected into me to later find out that "ooops" bad batch.

[Byte1]

Special snowflakes who never get sick and never get vaccines aside...

The flu vaccines are year-specific. Last year the CDC recommended holding off a little while to get it, because they were expecting the season to start late. The vaccines don't just have a shelf life (how long they can stay in the vial before it has to be thrown away) but they also have a half-life (how long it takes to wear off in your body until it's only 50% as effective as it was when it was injected).

Yes it can last up to 9 months. But it starts losing its effectiveness several months sooner than that. If the flu season is expected to begin in November, and last as late as March, and you get the shot this week - in mid August..

It means it'll be 2 months in when flu season starts. By the end of flu season you'll have been vaccinated for 7 months and your vaccine will be less than 50% as potent as it was when you got it.

If you wait til September or early October, you stand a much better chance of enduring the flu for the entire season.

ON THE OTHER HAND - if the CDC says this year's going to be an early season - then get it ASAP.

It really depends on the year.

Sounds like the "snowflakes" are the ones that NEED or feel entitled to the gov nanny. Why do you consider healthy people that choose not to get a vaccine, to be "snowflakes?" Elitists are snowflakes. Those that think they are smarter/more educated than others are snowflakes.

I have absolutely no problem with anyone else getting the vaccine. I just choose not to because I do not feel it to be necessary in my case. I am careful and diligent when it comes to recognizing disease threats around me. I have lived overseas for most of my life so I am familiar with dangerous diseases and how to use preventative measures to avoid infection. I do not believe that I should be labeled a "snowflake."

[golfing eagles]

I am glad they have a flu shot for folks that want it. My wife gets it on the advice of her doctor. I haven't had a flu shot in 50 years and have never had the flu. My preference. If I get the flu and die it is of no consequence to anyone other than myself and maybe my family. No one expects to live forever and I am glad they don't. We are already over populating this planet so something has to thin out the herd. I don't care whether or not anyone else gets the shot. Pump all those drugs and crap into your body for all I care. Yes, I did get my free pneumonia shot before entering the hospital for an operation. And yes I did get the shingles shot when our neighbor that frequents our home had shingles. BUT, I have had childhood mumps, several different measles, as well as other childhood diseases. Traveling overseas for the gov. mandated that I have all kinds of plague shots as well as yellow fever, diphtheria, etc. I had rabies shots when I was bitten by a rat overseas. So, I am not adverse to required shots, but since I firmly believe that I don't get the flu and since I haven't even had a cold in over a decade, I won't get the flu shot. If I get the flu and die, you can say "I told you so" but it won't matter to me, will it? And I get my shots free, so it is not a matter of cost. I just don't see any reason to have that crap injected into me to later find out that "ooops" bad batch.

Just so everyone knows, you CANNOT get shingles from a person who has them. Herpes Zoster is a reactivation of the chicken pox virus you had years ago and lied dormant in your dorsal root ganglia. That is why the "rash" occurs on one side and in one dermatome with only a few exceptions. You CAN get chicken pox from an individual with shingles if you never had them

[Byte1]

Just so everyone knows, you CANNOT get shingles from a person who has them. Herpes Zoster is a reactivation of the chicken pox virus you had years ago and lied dormant in your dorsal root ganglia. That is why the "rash" occurs on one side and in one dermatome with only a few exceptions. You CAN get chicken pox from an individual with shingles if you never had them

"You can spread the varicella zoster virus to people who’ve never had chickenpox and haven’t been vaccinated." -- WebMD

[golfing eagles]

"You can spread the varicella zoster virus to people who’ve never had chickenpox and haven’t been vaccinated." -- WebMD

Isn't that what I just said?

[graciegirl]

My PC Dr recommended mid Oct and not to get flu shot earlier.

Mine too. I think we will get the seasonal flu shot earlier than that, the first part of October. I think I heard that is being suggested so that you have that immunity in place if you should catch Covid-19.

[ghoffman]

I just called to schedule my annual flu vaccine, only to be told that TV Health has none and don't know when they will! I find this unacceptable! Then to add insult to injury I was told I could go to my pharmacy! Since I'm sure all the doctors at TVH have told their patients to get vaccinated, why they haven't made sure that the administration has done their jobs is beyond me!

[Bjeanj]

No, Shingrix is not covered by Medicare Part B. If you don't have other insurance, you will probably pay about $160 per shot for each shot. You need to get two shots between 2 and 6 months apart.

I got a shingles shot about 4 years ago. At that time, they only called for one, not two, shots. Will have to ask my doctor if I need to re-do and get two shots.

Broke down and got my 65+ extra strength flu shot last weekend. I’m sure there is an official name for it, but that’s what I’m calling it.

[davem4616]

do they still offer the $10 gift card?

Publix does

[Dan9871]

I just called to schedule my annual flu vaccine, only to be told that TV Health has none and don't know when they will! I find this unacceptable! Then to add insult to injury I was told I could go to my pharmacy! Since I'm sure all the doctors at TVH have told their patients to get vaccinated, why they haven't made sure that the administration has done their jobs is beyond me!

They must have run out. I got my flu shot a couple of weeks ago from Villages Health.

[retiredguy123]

I got a shingles shot about 4 years ago. At that time, they only called for one, not two, shots. Will have to ask my doctor if I need to re-do and get two shots.

Broke down and got my 65+ extra strength flu shot last weekend. I’m sure there is an official name for it, but that’s what I’m calling it.
It's a good idea to ask your doctor. But, all of the public information being distributed indicates that the new 2-shot Shingrix vaccine is way more effective and highly recommended over the shot that was available 4 years ago. 90 percent effective for the new vaccine vs 40 percent for the old vaccine.

[Dana1963]

You did great. My wife has Medicare and plan F supplement from Florida Blue, neither would pay for the vaccine. Walgreens price was $182, Goodrx brought it down to $155.
Flu, Shingles and pneumonia are covered under Part D. Part F coverers 20% donut whole for major medical.

[Bjeanj]

Special snowflakes who never get sick and never get vaccines aside...
.

I think the term “snowflakes” has run its course, don’t you?

[retiredguy123]

Flu, Shingles and pneumonia are covered under Part D. Part F coverers 20% donut whole for major medical.
Just to clarify, you don't need Medicare Part D for coverage for the flu and pneumonia vaccines. They are covered by Medicare Part B. But, Part B does not cover the shingles vaccine.

[kathyspear]

I got a shingles shot about 4 years ago. At that time, they only called for one, not two, shots. Will have to ask my doctor if I need to re-do and get two shots.

Broke down and got my 65+ extra strength flu shot last weekend. I’m sure there is an official name for it, but that’s what I’m calling it.

The new two-shot shingles vaccine (called Shingrex) is much more effective than the old one. You should seriously consider getting it even if you had the old one.

kathy

[graciegirl]

It's a good idea to ask your doctor. But, all of the public information being distributed indicates that the new 2-shot Shingrix vaccine is way more effective and highly recommended over the shot that was available 4 years ago. 90 percent effective for the new vaccine vs 40 percent for the old vaccine.

I read the same thing and we all want to get the new one too.

[bagboy]

Flu, Shingles and pneumonia are covered under Part D. Part F coverers 20% donut whole for major medical.

Well, I think you are right and I was mistaken saying supplemental or Part D wouldn't pay for my wifes pneumonia vaccine. In fact, the $182 cost was her portion after her supplemental paid their part. Maybe because she has not met her deductible. I appreciate you pointing this out as she will get her 2nd shot in a month or so, and we will know to ask more insurance questions.
We have scheduled flu shots for October 1st.

[retiredguy123]

Well, I think you are right and I was mistaken saying supplemental or Part D wouldn't pay for my wifes pneumonia vaccine. In fact, the $182 cost was her portion after her supplemental paid their part. Maybe because she has not met her deductible. I appreciate you pointing this out as she will get her 2nd shot in a month or so, and we will know to ask more insurance questions.
We have scheduled flu shots for October 1st.
If you have Medicare Part B and a Medicare supplement, the pneumonia vaccine should be covered in full. Part B should also cover the flu vaccine. You shouldn't need Part D at all.

[bagboy]

If you have Medicare Part B and a Medicare supplement, the pneumonia vaccine should be covered in full. Part B should also cover the flu vaccine. You shouldn't need Part D at all.

Yes, her flu and pneumonia vaccines were covered. Shingrix is the question . Using Medicare insurance (part b,d, supplement, I don't know) her cost would have been $182. With Goodrx we paid $155. We will get cost clarified at next Shingrix shot, #2.

[retiredguy123]

Yes, her flu and pneumonia vaccines were covered. Shingrix is the question . Using Medicare insurance (part b,d, supplement, I don't know) her cost would have been $182. With Goodrx we paid $155. We will get cost clarified at next Shingrix shot, #2.
I think if she has Medicare Part D, it will cover the Shingrix, which is not covered by Part B.

[Stu from NYC]

The new two-shot shingles vaccine (called Shingrex) is much more effective than the old one. You should seriously consider getting it even if you had the old one.

kathy

We did get the new 2 parts shingles vaccine late last year. We both had the earlier one a few years earlier.

About a month after the second one had a rash on my back that I thought was a bug bite.

Shortly after my wife encouraged me to have a DR look at my back. Too make a long story a bit shorter, turns out my rash was shingles.

Apparently my vaccination did not take full effect at that time but it did lead to a much lesser case of shingles.

If that was a lesser case do not want to get the usual one. I strongly encourage everyone to get the new 2 part vaccine.