Quick answer: 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.
Cost shouldn’t stop you from getting vaccinated. Here’s how flu shot coverage works in Virginia, what to expect if you’re paying yourself, and how to avoid surprise bills.
Flu shot cost with insurance
Under the Affordable Care Act, most private health plans must cover recommended vaccines, including the flu shot, at no cost when you use an in-network provider. That usually means no copay, coinsurance or deductible for the shot itself.
Check our accepted insurance list before you visit.
Medicare and the flu shot
Medicare Part B covers one flu shot per flu season with no cost to you when the provider accepts Medicare. Adults 65 and older are encouraged to get a higher-dose or adjuvanted vaccine, which is also covered. Read our flu shot guide for more on vaccine types.
Virginia Medicaid (Cardinal Care)
Cardinal Care covers flu vaccines for adults and children. Children may also qualify for free vaccines through the Vaccines for Children program. Learn more in our guide to using Cardinal Care at urgent care.
Flu shot cost without insurance
| Where | Typical self-pay price |
|---|---|
| Standard flu shot (most adults) | About $30 to $50 |
| High-dose or adjuvanted shot (65+) | About $60 to $90 |
| PACS Urgent Care | Ask our front desk for current pricing |
Prices are general estimates and vary by location and season. Check our self-pay pricing or ask our front desk before your visit.
What if I’m sick and need more than a shot?
If you already have flu symptoms, you need a visit, not a vaccine. At PACS, a self-pay routine visit is $139, and each on-site rapid test (flu, COVID-19, RSV or strep) is $45. Total visit charges plus add-ons are capped at $399, not including outside labs. A telemedicine visit is $75. See rapid flu testing for what to expect.
Tips to avoid surprise costs
- Bring your insurance card and photo ID
- Confirm the clinic is in-network for your plan
- Ask whether any visit fee applies if you’re only getting a vaccine
- Getting both shots? You can get flu and COVID vaccines on the same day
Frequently asked questions
Is the flu shot free in Virginia?
For most people with insurance, Medicare or Medicaid, yes, when you use an in-network provider. Without insurance, you’ll pay out of pocket.
Does insurance cover a flu shot at urgent care?
Usually, if the urgent care is in your network. Coverage rules vary by plan, so check with your insurer or ask us.
Is the high-dose flu shot more expensive?
Yes, without insurance it typically costs more. Medicare covers it for adults 65 and older.
Where can I learn more?
See Medicare.gov for Part B vaccine coverage and the Virginia Department of Health at vdh.virginia.gov.
Get care today at PACS Urgent Care
Walk in or book online at our Alexandria flu clinic (3481 N Beauregard St, open 7 days, 8 AM to 8 PM) or book at our Ruther Glen flu clinic (17067 Merchants Dr, Monday to Friday 8 AM to 8 PM, Saturday and Sunday 9 AM to 5 PM). Prefer to stay home? Start with a telemedicine visit.
This article is general information and is not a substitute for advice from your own clinician.
