Here we go again: flu season arrives in October [1], and it's crucial that you get the flu shot if you're able [2] to protect both yourself and those around you [3]. Don't put it off, either — while it's better late than never, experts recommend getting vaccinated before the season begins [4], since the vaccine takes about two weeks to take effect. Fortunately, it's easy to get a flu shot [5], and at many places, it's free!
Getting a flu shot doesn't have to mean waiting for an appointment in congested waiting rooms at doctors' offices or urgent care clinics. There are plenty of major retailers that have in-store pharmacies that take most major medical insurance plans, leaving you with peace of mind and without a hefty bill. Keep reading for a list of all the places you can find a free flu shot this year. Just remember to check on any age restrictions before you head out!
- Walgreens/Duane Reade: Walgreens and its sister company Duane Reade offer flu shots that are free with most insurance [7] at their locations. You can find the location nearest you here [8] and schedule an appointment or just walk in.
- CVS/Target: The pharmacy chain offers flu shots that may be free [9], depending on your insurance plan, as well as $5 off a $25 purchase when you get the shot. CVS provides flu vaccines at its pharmacies, as well as its Minute Clinics inside of Target stores — find the one nearest you here [10].
- Rite Aid: Flu shots at Rite Aid are free with most insurance plans [11], and you can walk in without an appointment. You can find the location nearest you here [12].
- Walmart: You can get a free flu shot at Walmart [13] with most insurances. Look for the store nearest you here [14].
- Sam's Club: Like its parent company, Sam's Club offers free flu shots under most insurance plans [15], and you aren't required to have a membership to go to the pharmacy. You can find the warehouse nearest you here [16].
- Kroger: If you have insurance coverage [17], you can probably get a flu shot for free at any Kroger Pharmacy. Find the store nearest to you here [18].
- Costco: Costco offers the flu shot free with most insurance plans [19], and you can use their pharmacy services even without a Costco membership. You can find the warehouse nearest to you here [20].
- Safeway: Safeway pharmacies provide flu shots for free with most insurance plans [21], and there's no appointment needed (although you can schedule one if you choose). Find the location nearest to you here [22].
- Publix Super Markets: The pharmacies in this grocery chain offer free flu shots to most people with insurance [23]. Plus, anyone who gets the shot will be given a $10 Publix gift card. You can find the store nearest to you here [24].
- Stop & Shop/Giant/Martin's: Pharmacies inside Stop & Shop, Giant, and Martin's stores offer free flu shots with most insurances [25]. You can find the location nearest to you here for Stop & Shop [26], Giant [27], and Martin's [28], respectively.
- Food Lion: Pharmacies inside Food Lion offer free flu shots with most insurances [29], no appointment necessary. You can find the location nearest to you here [30].