Ochsner Health is the leading nonprofit healthcare provider in the Gulf South. Ochsner inspires healthier lives and stronger communities through our mission to serve, heal, lead, educate and innovate.
Flu Shots
Influenza (Flu)
The flu can have a serious impact on the health of our communities, and with COVID-19, it’s important for everyone to get the flu vaccine each fall to protect you and your loved ones.
If you or a family member has flu symptoms, please visit an Urgent Care location or see a doctor online 24/7 with an Ochsner Connected Anywhere Virtual Visit.
How to identify flu symptoms and what to do if you think you need to seek care: Click Here
Schedule a flu vaccine appointment in MyOchsner.
Ochsner On Call
Unless otherwise directed by your doctor or provider, please call Ochsner On Call, our 24/7 nurse care advice line at 1-800-231-5257, for guidance regarding your symptoms. For emergencies, call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room.
Registered nurses at the Ochsner On Call Center can help determine how soon you should be seen and recommend the best care options for your symptoms.
3 Ways to Get a Flu Shot at Ochsner Health
1. Visit an Ochsner Pharmacy & Wellness Location
Find a Pharmacy & Wellness location near you.
Ochsner Pharmacy & Wellness accepts most insurances, and walk-ins are welcome. They can administer flu shots to adults and children ages 7 and up.
2. Primary Care and Pediatric Physicians
Ochsner primary care and pediatric physicians offer flu shots by appointment.
To schedule an appointment:
- Schedule online through our secure patient portal, MyOchsner
- Call 1-866-OCHSNER
3. Visit an Urgent Care Location
Find an Urgent Care location near you.
Ochsner's urgent care locations can administer flu shots to adults and children 6 months and older.
The Flu and COVID-19
Influenza (flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by infection with a new coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2) and flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses. Because some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, it may be hard to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone, and testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis. Flu and COVID-19 share many characteristics, but there are some key differences between the two.
While it’s not possible to say with certainty what will happen in the fall and winter, the Centers for Disease Control believes it’s likely that flu viruses and the virus that causes COVID-19 will both be spreading this fall and winter.
Who should get a flu shot?
The CDC recommends that all people 6 months and older get a yearly flu vaccine.
Ochsner offers a variety of flu shot options, including preservative-free alternatives for pregnant women and people with allergies. Pregnant women, children younger than 5 and adults younger than 65 are at risk for flu-related complications. Contact your doctor for more information.
