What to do
Find where to get the COVID-19 and flu vaccines
Since it is still early in the season, vaccine availability may still be limited. Check availability with your healthcare provider or the pharmacy before going.
If you have insurance:
- Ask your healthcare provider for both vaccines.
- You can also get the vaccine at CVS or Walgreens or other retail pharmacies. Book online to make sure your store has the vaccine.
- Vaccines are covered if you get them at places that take your insurance.
If you do not have insurance:
You may be eligible for health coverage that includes vaccines:
- Sign up to get care with the San Francisco Health Network. They will enroll you in health coverage if you do not have insurance.
Even if you do not have insurance, check with your healthcare provider to see if they have COVID-19 and flu vaccines available at no cost.
Check back later this fall for more information about other options for people without insurance.
When to get your updated COVID-19 and flu vaccines
Plan to get your flu vaccine by the end of October. This is because flu season may start as early as November.
It is safe to get the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as the flu vaccine.
Find out if you should get vaccinated against RSV
A new vaccine came out in 2023 that protects against RSV. RSV is another virus that causes illness similar to a cold. But babies and older adults can sometimes become very sick from RSV and need to be hospitalized.
Because of this, the RSV vaccine is recommended for certain groups:
Older adults:
Adults age 75 and older should get the RSV vaccine.
Adults ages 60-74 at increased risk of severe RSV, should also get the RSV vaccine.
- Increased risk means having chronic heart or lung disease, certain other chronic medical conditions, or living in a nursing home or other long-term care facility.
If you received the RSV vaccine last year, you do not need another dose this year.
Pregnant people:
- All pregnant people should get the vaccine between week 32 and 36 of pregnancy if those weeks fall between September and January. This gives your baby immunity against RSV during RSV season.
RSV vaccines are covered by insurance.
Special cases
COVID-19 vaccines for persons unable to leave their home (homebound)
COVID-19 vaccines for persons unable to leave their home (homebound)
SFDPH has some limited capacity to vaccinate individuals in their homes. If you cannot leave your home to receive a vaccine, first try asking your healthcare provider about getting it at your next healthcare visit, or if they can come to your home to vaccinate you.
SFDPH will begin scheduling appointments for in-home vaccinations beginning October 1, 2024. Check back at this website at that time for further instructions.
Get help
Scheduling assistance
If you need help scheduling a vaccine appointment at a location near you, call My Turn at 833-422-4255.
Last updated September 19, 2024