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2023 flu vaccines now available at Grand Itasca

Flu season is around the corner, and flu vaccines are now available.
  • September 27, 2023
  • By Staff Writer

Flu season is around the corner, and flu vaccines are now available at Grand Itasca. 

Appointments are required. To schedule an appointment online, please log into MyChart or create an account if you are a new user. You can also call 1-855-324-7843. To schedule an appointment by phone please call our appointment line at 218-326-7344.

We will also be offering the RSV vaccine for eligible groups later this fall and will share more information when it’s available. Updated COVID-19 vaccines are expected to be available very soon as well. Once we know more, additional information will be posted here and on our COVID-19 Resource Hub.

Scroll down for more information about the flu vaccine availability.

Is it too early to get a flu shot?

September and October are great times to get the flu shot, so that your family will be protected when flu season starts. Flu season typically runs from October to March each year, and your body needs time to build antibodies to the flu virus after you have received your flu shot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourages everyone to get vaccinated before the end of October for the best protection, however the flu shot will continue to be offered throughout the flu season.

Who should get a flu shot?

The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccination for people 6 months and older. It’s especially important for those at high risk for developing flu-related complications – including pregnant women, children under 5, adults 65 and older, and people with certain medical conditions.

Where can I get a flu shot?

Anyone six months of age or older can get a flu vaccine at Grand Itasca, either by making a vaccine only appointment or during another clinic appointment. 

How can I make an appointment?

Call 218-326-7344 to schedule an appointment by phone or log into MyChart.

How much does the flu vaccine cost?

Most health insurance plans cover the cost of the flu vaccine. If you don’t have insurance, the flu vaccine will cost $65 to $105.

What is the difference between COVID-19 and the flu?

COVID-19 and the flu are both respiratory illnesses that can cause fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches. However, they are caused by two different viruses and have some important differences in symptoms, who is most at risk of getting very ill, and how they spread. The CDC has an overview of the similarities and differences between the flu and COVID-19.

I'm experiencing flu symptoms. How can I get care?

It’s easy to access rapid care for flu and other respiratory illnesses.

We offer at-home eVisits as well as video or telephone visits. Our Get Care tool helps you decide the best way to get the care you need.

You may also choose to be seen at our Rapid Clinic, which is open weekdays 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM and weekends 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Is the flu vaccine safe for my family?

Yes. The flu vaccine is safe and effective – and it’s important for even young, healthy people to get vaccinated. 

How effective is the flu vaccine?

Each year, different strains of the influenza virus spread across the country. Experts develop the flu vaccine based on data predicting which kinds will be most prevalent. The vaccines available this year are quadrivalent, meaning they protect against four common flu viruses. In addition to significantly decreasing the risk of getting flu, the flu vaccine – like the COVID-19 vaccine – significantly reduces the risk of severe illness or death in those who become ill.  

Have more questions about the flu vaccine?

Take a look at the CDC’s updated information about the seasonal flu shot.

Will the RSV vaccine be offered?

Grand Itasca will be offering patients the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine for the upcoming RSV season, typically October through April. Details will be announced soon.

Will the latest COVID-19 vaccine be offered?

Updated COVID-19 vaccines are expected to be approved by the FDA in late September. Once we know more, additional information will be posted on our COVID-19 Resource Hub.

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