The flu shot is the only successful method of prevention against the influenza virus. As the winter months approach, production begins for an updated flu vaccine to prevent the spread of the epidemic. The vaccine is updated annually to protect against new strains of virus and the associated illness; scientists determine which strains are most likely to be dangerous, and prepare vaccines for those strains. The vaccine is also available in a nasal spray which has similar effects on the body.

Flu Shot Background

The flu vaccine, a preventative method against the influenza virus, is available in the form of a flu shot. Prior to flu season, organizations, both public and private, begin to manufacture new forms of the vaccine in order to prevent the spread of the flu epidemic throughout the United States and other countries. Since the 1940s, a flu shot has been available in the United States and has been modified annually to correspond with new forms of the virus.

Walgreens Flu Shot

In September of 2009, the Walgreens pharmacy provided the Walgreens flu shot to the public along with other forms of influenza protection. This new program instituted by the nationwide chain of pharmacies made the flu vaccine available due to the rising concern about the H1N1 strain of influenza. The Walgreens flu shot program is anticipated to continue into the 2010 flu season.

CVS Flu Shot

As of 2009, select CVS pharmacies around the United States offered the flu vaccine to the public as the CVS flu shot. The contents of the injection were no different than those administered by other facilities; the name simply refers to the pharmacy providing the vaccination. This was the first endeavor by the pharmacy to provide an influenza vaccine to the public and the program is expected to continue in the coming years.

Flu Shot Finder

A flu shot locator is a tool that allows people to search for the nearest location offering the flu vaccine to the public. While early forms were found in brochures, today, this information is available on the internet through many websites. A website with a flu shot locator allows a person to type in his or her address and find a facility, such as a hospital or pharmacy, that is authorized to administer the flu vaccine.

Flu Shot Side Effects

Flu shot side effects are related to both the injection and nasal spray forms of the flu vaccine. Most symptoms related with flu shot side effects resolve themselves after a few days as they are not serious medical issues. However, should someone be allergic to the vaccine, more serious complications could present and require medical care. The most common side effects are soreness at the site of the injection and a mild fever.