Flu Shot Clinics at UCSF
Why get a flu shot?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a flu shot for most people age 6 months and older.
The flu vaccine reduces the risk of infection, hospitalization and death. It also protects vulnerable individuals like children, the elderly and people with a weakened immune system (such as anyone with cancer), who are more likely to get severely ill. And it reduces the burden on our health care system. Get your flu shot!
The vaccine is especially important for people at higher risk of complications from the flu, including:
- Pregnant women
- People with certain medical conditions, including asthma, diabetes and chronic lung disease
- People who live with or provide care to infants
- Adults age 65 and older
- Children age 5 and younger
Some people should not get a flu shot without first talking to their health care provider. This includes people who:
- Have had a bad reaction to the flu shot in the past
- Have a fever on the day they're scheduled for a flu shot
Discover more facts about the flu, from symptoms to treatment and complications to watch for.
Where to get a flu shot
Your local drugstore pharmacy is probably the easiest and closest place to get a flu shot. Most pharmacies allow you to schedule an appointment online and also take walk-ins if they're not booked up.
In the U.S., flu season generally begins in October and continues through May. It's best to be vaccinated sooner than later, so you'll be protected throughout the season.
Getting your shot at UCSF is also an option. You can self-schedule with your primary care clinic via MyChart or call them to schedule a shot.
Many UCSF clinics offer flu shots during already scheduled visits, too. Feel free to ask about it when you go in for your appointment.
Your immunization history
Update us! UCSF keeps track of your immunization history. We understand that you may go somewhere else for your flu shot. If you get it at any UCSF facility, it will automatically be entered in your medical record. If you get your shot from another medical provider or a pharmacy, please notify us of the date and we'll include it in your UCSF medical record.