Seasonal flu shots are now available for anyone 6 months and older at the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment’s walk-in clinic in Olathe. Flu shots are given on a walk-in basis from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Thursday, and 8 a.m. to noon, on Fridays. The clinic is located at 11875 S. Sunset Dr., Olathe. 

Flu shots reduce the risk of getting the flu, and more importantly, reduce the risk of severe illness or hospitalization for those who do get the flu. Individuals who need a first, second or third/booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can get one at the same time as their flu shot. 

“We are still seeing high levels of COVID-19 transmission in Johnson County. We can all do our part by getting a flu shot to prevent illness and hospitalizations and limit the stress on our health care system,” says Sanmi Areola, JCDHE director. “The flu shot is safe, does not cause the flu and can protect you and your loved ones.” 

The flu vaccine will not protect individuals from getting COVID-19, but it will offer protection from the four types of influenza viruses that may circulate this season. 

JCDHE follows CDC guidance, which recommends getting a flu vaccine by the end of October. If an individual doesn’t get vaccinated in October, they should get vaccinated as soon as possible, as it takes two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop the antibodies to fight flu. 

Most insurance plans, Medicare Part B and Medicaid cover the full cost of the vaccine. Those without insurance will pay $40 for the seasonal (quadrivalent) flu shot and $80 for the high dose or FLUBLOK® vaccine. FLUBLOK® is recommended for adults age 18 and older, especially those who are at a higher risk of the flu and its complications. The high-dose flu shot is reserved for adults over age 65. 

Flu shots are widely available at doctors’ offices, urgent care clinics, at some employers, and many retail stores and pharmacies. JCDHE recommends that you call ahead to make sure there is flu vaccine in stock. When visiting a location to receive a flu vaccine, stay at least six feet apart from those you don’t live with, wear a mask and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.