Flu Shots

Flu Season is Here

The flu can have a serious impact on the health of our communities, and this year with COVID-19, it’s more important than ever for everyone to get the flu vaccine. The flu shots can go a long way to protect you, your family and the community. Getting the flu shot is an easy way to help save lives, and Ochsner LSU Health is making it more convenient than ever so that we can work together to fight the flu.

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, visit the To Your Health Ochsner Blog

We also offer a 24/7 Ochsner On Call nurse care line, at 1-800-231-5257.

Convenient Ways to Get a Flu Shot at Ochsner LSU

1. Appointments with a Primary Care or Pediatric Physician

Ochsner LSU Health primary care and pediatric physicians offer flu shots by appointment at any of our Health Centers in North Louisiana.

To schedule an appointment:

• Schedule online through our secure patient portal, MyOchsner
• Call your doctor
• Find a primary care office

2. Visit an Urgent Care Location

Our 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, CDC believes it’s likely that flu viruses and the virus that causes COVID-19 will both be spreading this fall and winter. In this context, getting a flu vaccine will be more important than ever. CDC recommends that all people 6 months and older get a yearly flu vaccine.

Think You Have the Flu?

If flu symptoms arise, patients can call Ochsner On Call (1-800-231-5257), a free service with specially trained registered nurses available to discuss your health care concerns, to help you decide if your symptoms require going to the emergency room for assessment or a visit to a physician, and to recommend appropriate self-care techniques.

Remember to wash your hands frequently and cover your mouth when sneezing and coughing to help limit spreading the virus to others.