COVID, Flu & Flu Shots: Protect Your Health This Season

Posted on October 1st, 2026

Respiratory-virus season can bring more than a lingering cough. Influenza (flu) and COVID-19 can both cause missed work or school, disrupt family routines, and lead to serious complications—especially for older adults, pregnant people, young children, and people with chronic health conditions.

Vaccination is one practical step that can help reduce your risk. The best choice and timing can depend on your age, health history, pregnancy status, prior vaccinations, and medications. This article is for general education and is not a personal medical plan.

COVID-19 and Flu: Similar Symptoms, Different Viruses

Flu and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses, but their symptoms can overlap. Either illness may cause fever or chills, cough, sore throat, fatigue, headache, body aches, congestion, or a runny nose. Some people with COVID-19 may also notice changes in taste or smell.

Symptoms alone cannot always tell you which infection you have. If you become ill—especially if you are at higher risk for complications—contact a healthcare professional promptly. Testing and timely treatment may be important.

Why Seasonal Vaccination Matters

Flu viruses change over time, which is why the flu vaccine is updated and recommended every season. The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone ages 6 months and older, with rare exceptions. It is especially important for people at higher risk of serious flu-related complications.

Current COVID-19 vaccination recommendations also vary by age and health status. For the 2026–2027 season, the CDC recommends an updated COVID-19 vaccine for adults ages 18 and older. For children, recommendations depend on immune status and shared decision-making with a healthcare professional.

Vaccines do not eliminate every infection, but they can help lower the risk of serious illness and complications.

Who Should Discuss Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines With a Clinician?

A preventive-care conversation can be particularly helpful if you:

• Are age 65 or older

• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy

• Have asthma, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or another chronic condition

• Have a weakened immune system or take medications that affect immunity

• Care for an infant, older adult, or medically vulnerable person

• Work in healthcare, education, childcare, or another public-facing setting

• Are unsure which vaccines you have already received

• Have had a serious allergic reaction or other concerning reaction after a previous vaccine

For children, vaccine timing and the number of doses can depend on age and vaccination history. A clinician can help families understand the current guidance.

Can You Get a Flu Shot and COVID-19 Vaccine at the Same Visit?

In many cases, yes. The CDC states that flu and COVID-19 vaccines may be given during the same visit. Some people prefer to receive them together for convenience; others may choose separate visits. A healthcare professional can help you decide what fits your health needs and schedule.

More Ways to Reduce Respiratory-Virus Risk

Vaccination is an important layer of protection, but it is not the only one. During respiratory-virus season, consider these additional steps:

• Stay home when you are sick when possible.

• Wash hands regularly with soap and water.

• Cover coughs and sneezes.

• Improve indoor airflow when practical.

• Consider testing when you develop symptoms or have been exposed.

• Ask about treatment promptly if you are at higher risk or develop concerning symptoms.

Seek urgent medical care for trouble breathing, chest pain or pressure, new confusion, inability to stay awake, bluish lips or face, dehydration, or any other severe or worsening symptoms.

Make Prevention Part of Your Seasonal Care

At Washington Wellness, preventive care starts with listening to your health questions and reviewing your individual needs. If you would like to discuss seasonal respiratory-virus prevention, your vaccination history, or when to seek care for symptoms, schedule a wellness and preventive-care visit.

Bring your available vaccine records and a list of medications or questions. Together, you and your healthcare professional can make an informed plan for the season ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does everyone need a flu shot every year?

The CDC recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone ages 6 months and older, with rare exceptions. The right vaccine formulation can vary by age and health status.

Is a flu shot the same as a COVID-19 vaccine?

No. They protect against different viruses. A flu vaccine helps protect against influenza viruses, while a COVID-19 vaccine helps protect against COVID-19.

Can children receive flu and COVID-19 vaccines?

Children may be eligible based on age, health status, and current guidance. Parents and guardians should discuss the appropriate schedule with the child’s healthcare professional.

Can I get vaccinated if I have a chronic condition?

Many people with chronic conditions benefit from discussing seasonal vaccination with a clinician because certain conditions can increase the risk of serious illness. Your care team can review your health history and any precautions.

Where can I find current vaccine guidance?

Recommendations can change. Review the CDC’s seasonal flu guidance and current COVID-19 vaccine guidance, then discuss what applies to you with a healthcare professional.

Sources: CDC seasonal flu vaccine information, CDC flu prevention guidance, and CDC COVID-19 vaccine guidance.