Flu season is here, and getting your flu shot has never been easier. Remember that getting vaccinated is the single best way to protect yourself, as well as your loved ones, against the flu virus.

This year, enrolled Veterans of the VA health care system have several options to get a seasonal flu shot. VA offers more options, easy access, and seamless records – the choice is yours.

So what are your options?

You may opt to get a free flu shot at your local VA health care facility.

Or you may choose to go to your neighborhood Walgreens.

As an enrolled VA patient, you can get a no-cost flu shot at Walgreens from August 1, 2015 – March 31, 2016.

VA health care facilities

You may receive a no-cost flu shot during any scheduled appointment, if you are admitted to one of our VA health care facilities, or at one of the convenient walk-in flu stations.

For more information on locations and hours contact your local VA health care facility.

Walgreens nationwide

If you are a Veteran patient in the VA system, you may choose to get a no-cost flu shot at a local Walgreens between now and March 31, 2016.

No appointment is required; simply go to any Walgreens, tell the pharmacist you receive care at a VA facility and show your Veterans Identification Card and another form of photo ID. Use Group Code # 5933XBAYV .

Your immunization record will be updated electronically in your local VA electronic health record.

Non-VA Providers and Pharmacies

Many local retail pharmacies offer flu shots that may be covered by private insurance or programs such as Medicare. If you do not have insurance, there will usually be a charge.

View this video for more information about VA’s national immunization initiative to provide Veterans more options, easier access, and seamless records when it comes to getting their seasonal flu shot.

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Reference to non-VA pharmacies, including Walgreens, does not constitute or imply endorsement of these organizations, their services or products. If your local pharmacy is currently not participating in the VA Retail Immunization Program, it may participate in the future as the program expands. Vaccine is subject to availability. State and health-related restrictions may apply. If you do not have insurance coverage, there may be a charge for a flu shot after March 31, 2016.

About the Author: Dr. Margaret A. Donahue is the Director for the Veterans Health Information Exchange