Flu symptoms usually start suddenly 1 to 4 days after exposure, most often around day 2. Fever, chills, body aches and exhaustion are worst in the first 3 days and usually improve by days 5 to 7, but cough and tiredness can last 2 weeks or more. You are most contagious in the first 3 to 4 days. Getting tested in the first 48 hours gives antiviral treatment the best chance to help.
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Yes. The CDC says it is safe to get a flu shot and an updated COVID-19 vaccine at the same visit, usually one in each arm. Getting both at once does not make either vaccine less effective, and side effects are similar to getting them separately. Fall is the best time for both. PACS Urgent Care offers flu shots in Alexandria and Ruther Glen.
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The CDC recommends a yearly flu shot for almost everyone 6 months and older. The best time to get it in Virginia is September or October, before flu peaks between December and February, but getting it later still helps. It takes about 2 weeks to build protection. PACS Urgent Care offers walk-in flu shots in Alexandria and Ruther Glen, no appointment needed.
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Children 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine every year. Kids ages 6 months to 8 years who are getting a flu vaccine for the first time, or who have had only one dose before, need 2 doses at least 4 weeks apart. The best time is September or October. Flu shots are safe for kids, and side effects are usually mild, like a sore arm or low fever.
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Most health insurance plans, Medicare Part B and Virginia Medicaid (Cardinal Care) cover the yearly flu shot with no copay when you get it from an in-network provider. Without insurance, a flu shot in Virginia typically costs about $30 to $75 depending on the vaccine type and where you go. At PACS Urgent Care, the self-pay flu shot price is listed below.
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A workplace flu shot program helps Northern Virginia employers cut sick days and keep teams running through flu season. Employers can send staff to PACS Urgent Care in Alexandria or Ruther Glen for walk-in flu shots, or contact our occupational health team about group options. The best time to vaccinate a team is September through November.
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No, the flu shot cannot give you the flu. The injected vaccine contains no live virus. The most common side effects are a sore arm, mild headache, tiredness or a low fever that usually fade within 1 to 2 days. Serious reactions are very rare. If you feel sick after a flu shot, it is usually a short-lived immune response or a different virus you caught around the same time.
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Remove an attached tick right away with fine-tipped tweezers, pulling straight up with steady pressure, then clean the area. Watch for 30 days for fever, chills, body aches, fatigue or an expanding red rash, which can be signs of Lyme disease or another tick-borne illness. See urgent care if you develop symptoms, can’t remove the tick, or the bite looks infected. Lyme disease cases have been rising in Virginia, according to the Virginia Department of Health.
Read moreTo make your visit as smooth and convenient as possible, we offer online check-in—an easy way to reserve your place in line, similar to joining a waitlist. You’ll receive real-time updates on your estimated wait time, giving you added flexibility and convenience while planning your visit.
Although we do our best to remain on schedule, occasional delays may occur, especially during unexpected increases in walk-in patients. We appreciate your understanding, as these delays allow us to provide every patient with the attentive, quality care they deserve—including you.
Thank you for your patience, your trust, and for choosing our team for your care. We look forward to serving you soon.
