Be Smart – Get Your Flu Shot This Year

Getting a flu vaccine is more important than ever during 2020–2021

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt our lives, you may be tempted to forego getting your annual flu vaccination. But getting your flu shot this fall could be the most important disease prevention action you take. Not only will you help protect yourself and the people around you from the flu, you will help reduce the strain on the health care community as it continues to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Free flu shots at Baptist

Baptist is holding a number of free flu vaccine events throughout the region, including drive-thru flu shot events at some locations. No appointment or registration is required.

Upcoming Flu Shot Events

Friday, October 16 at Baptist Memorial Hospital-Collierville

Thursday, October 22 at Baptist Memorial Hospital-DeSoto

More events coming soon.

If you would like to schedule a flu shot, contact any Baptist Medical Group primary care provider clinic to make an appointment. Most insurance plans cover flu vaccines, but check with your insurance company if you have questions. Be sure to have your insurance information handy when scheduling your appointment.

Recognize the Symptoms: Flu vs. COVID-19

Flu presents many of the same symptoms as COVID-19, and can have varying degrees of signs and symptoms, ranging from no symptoms (asymptomatic) to severe symptoms. Common symptoms that flu and COVID-19 share include the following:

  • Fever or feeling feverish/chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue (tiredness)
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle pain or body aches
  • Headache

Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than in adults.

COVID-19 Symptoms to Look For

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. Testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis. In addition to the symptoms already listed, COVID-19 can also lead to the following:

  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion
  • Inability to wake or stay awake
  • Bluish lips or face

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

If you think you may have COVID-19 and want to be tested, visit a Baptist COVID-19 Testing Center. If your symptoms are severe and you are able, please contact your local hospital before you visit and let them know you may have contracted COVID-19.