Medicare.gov

Flu shots

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers the seasonal flu shot (or vaccine)

  • Covered by Part B
  • Preventive Service
  • Once per flu season

  • You pay nothing if your provider accepts assignment

Description

The flu shot can keep you from getting sick with seasonal influenza (flu) viruses during the fall and winter.

Coverage details

This 2025-2026 flu season you can get a trivalent flu shot that protects against 3 different flu viruses. People 65 and older can get a trivalent flu shot to lower the risk of hospital visits and death. The trivalent vaccine is safe and effective. Get more details about the vaccine.

How can I protect myself from other respiratory viruses?

Costs

You pay nothing for a flu shot if your doctor or other health care provider accepts assignment for giving you the shot. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) , contact your plan for details.

Facility

You can get your flu shot at many places, including your doctor’s office and your local pharmacy — contact them for details. Find Flu Vaccines. 
 

Ask your doctor or healthcare provider how much your test, item, or service will cost.

Your doctor may recommend services that Medicare does not cover or offers too frequently. This could end up in additional costs for you. Make sure to ask your doctor about the reasons for these recommendations and what Medicare will actually cover.

Specific amounts you could owe depend on:

  • Other insurance you may have

  • How much your doctor charges

  • If your doctor accepts assignment

  • The type of facility

  • Where you get your test, item, or service