Flu and COVID-19 Resources at Sutter

Learn more about potential side effects after COVID-19 vaccination. 

Most people can get both vaccines in the same arm. If you’re getting the enhanced flu vaccine (approved for those 65 years and older), consider getting your COVID-19 and flu vaccines in different arms to reduce any arm pain and discomfort. 

Yes, please bring your insurance or Medicare/Medi-Cal card to your vaccination. Check with your insurance company about possible costs associated with vaccination. 

COVID-19 and flu vaccines are covered by most insurance companies, including Medicare Part B and MediCal plans. There may be a copay if insurance does not cover the full cost. Check with your insurance company if you have questions about coverage for the COVID-19 vaccine based on your age or risk condition. 

Yes. According to the CDC, evidence indicates that people can get added protection by getting vaccinated after they have had COVID or flu. See the CDC’s guidance for timing of vaccines after acute illness. 

Unless specifically indicated otherwise, you should be able to go ahead with most routine procedures and screenings either before or after receiving a COVID-19 or flu vaccine. However, talk to your doctor about getting a vaccine if you’re scheduling a surgery, transplant, or other procedure that requires anesthesia. 

Please wait 4-6 weeks after your vaccination to schedule your mammogram. 

Flu and COVID vaccines are available for anyone over 6 months old. You can schedule a vaccination appointment for yourself or a child through My Health Online. All vaccinations are by appointment only. 

Scientists ran large studies and trials before recommending COVID-19 vaccines for children. Research shows that COVID-19 vaccines are safe and provide more benefits than risks for children as young as 6 months old. CDPH, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) all recommend COVID-19 vaccination for children and during pregnancy. They highlight that studies show the vaccines are safe and effective.

Yes. Children can get the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other vaccines. 

Vaccinations remain one of the best and safest ways to protect against illness and/or reduce the severity of the infection, including during pregnancy. Based on California Department of Public Health (CDPH) guidelines, pregnancy is considered a high-risk condition, which increases a person’s chances of complications from COVID-19. Several studies, as well as groups like the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), have found no evidence that COVID-19 vaccines cause problems during pregnancy, including with placenta development. They recommend getting the vaccine in any trimester once you’re eligible. In addition, there’s no evidence that fertility problems are a side effect of any vaccine, including COVID-19 vaccines. Talk to your doctor about the risks of COVID-19 during pregnancy, and the risks and benefits of the COVID-19 vaccine

Everyone is at risk for getting COVID-19, and symptoms can be severe at any age. 

Getting a COVID-19 vaccine for your child will help to boost their immune response against COVID-19. It's the best way to protect them against COVID-19 and its complications. It will also help reduce spread of COVID-19 across families, schools and communities.