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. Getting a flu shot is a personal decision and should be discussed with your doctor or healthcare provider.
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.
Learn how to identify flu symptoms and what steps to take if you need care by reading our flu symptoms and care guide.
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 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.
Who should get a flu shot?
Getting a flu shot is a personal decision and should be discussed with your doctor or healthcare provider.
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.
