With so much information circulating about vaccines, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or confused. At Summit Health, our team of specialists is here to guide you along your care journey for a lifetime. Our goal is to help you make the best decision for you and your family. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about the seasonal flu and COVID vaccines to help you make informed decisions for yourself and your loved ones.

Q: Should I get the flu vaccine this year?

A: Yes, we strongly recommend that everyone aged 6 months and older receive the seasonal flu vaccine. Here’s why:

• The flu vaccine reduces your risk of catching the flu and, if you do get it, makes the illness less severe.
• It has been proven to lower the risk of hospitalization and death due to influenza.
• The flu shot cannot give you the flu. However, some people may experience mild flu-like symptoms as part of their immune response.

Q: Who should get the COVID vaccine?

A: We recommend the COVID vaccine for the following groups:

• Adults 65 and older
• Individuals aged 6 months to 64 years: Vaccination is based on individual decision-making, with the strongest recommendation for those at higher risk of severe COVID-19. Risk factors include:
  • Cancer
  • Chronic lung diseases (e.g., asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis, tuberculosis)
  • Chronic liver or kidney disease
  • Diabetes (including gestational diabetes)
  • Heart conditions (e.g., heart failure, coronary disease)
  • HIV/AIDS or immune disorders
  • Mental health conditions (e.g., severe depression, schizophrenia)
  • Obesity or physical inactivity
  • Smoking (current or former)
  • Solid organ or stem-cell transplants
  • Anyone who is pregnant, breast feeding, post-partum, or planning to get pregnant this winter
• People who care for or are otherwise exposed to individuals at high risk

Q: What should I know about the COVID vaccine?

A: The COVID vaccine is designed to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death—not transmission. While the virus is causing fewer deaths now due to mutations and widespread vaccination, it’s still unpredictable how any individual will react to a new infection. Those with serious health conditions are at higher risk of severe illness.

Q: Do I need a prescription to get the flu or COVID vaccine at a pharmacy?

A: No, you don’t need a prescription. In Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, pharmacists can administer both vaccines without a doctor’s order. Your doctor may also offer the vaccine in-office or send a prescription to the pharmacy if needed.

Q: Will the COVID vaccine be covered by insurance?

A: Most major insurance companies are expected to cover the COVID vaccine, but it’s always a good idea to confirm with your insurance provider or employer benefits specialist before getting vaccinated.

Q: With so much conflicting information, who should I trust about vaccines?

A: Your healthcare provider—whether it’s your physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant—is your most reliable source for vaccine information tailored to your specific health needs. At Summit Health, we encourage all patients to discuss their questions and concerns with their trusted healthcare professional.