Flu, COVID-19 and RSV Shots After 65: What Medicare Covers
Cooler weather brings flu season. This is also a good moment to ask about other shots that protect adults over 65. Here is what the CDC and Medicare say, as of October 2026, in plain English.
Why a flu shot matters after 65
The CDC says adults 65 and older are at higher risk of serious flu complications than younger, healthy adults, partly because the immune system changes with age. In recent years, an estimated 70% to 85% of flu-related deaths and 50% to 70% of flu-related hospitalizations were in people 65 and older.
The CDC says September and October are generally good times to get vaccinated, ideally by the end of October. It advises adults 65 and older not to get vaccinated in July or August, because protection can fade over time. If you have not had your shot yet, now is a good time.
Which flu vaccine to ask for
For adults 65 and older, the CDC and its advisory committee prefer three types of flu vaccine over the standard-dose version: high-dose, adjuvanted, or recombinant. If none of those is available, a standard-dose shot is still recommended. People 65 and older should not get the nasal spray. Ask your pharmacist or doctor which type they have.
What Medicare covers
- Flu shot: Medicare Part B covers it, usually once each flu season. Medicare says you pay nothing if your provider accepts assignment, which means they accept Medicare’s approved amount as full payment.
- COVID-19 vaccine: Medicare Part B covers it, and you pay nothing if your provider accepts assignment. Vaccines are updated from season to season, so check the Medicare page for the current one.
- RSV vaccine: Medicare Part D covers it, and Medicare says you pay nothing for it if you have Part D. Medicare Advantage plans with drug coverage also cover it.
Bring your red, white and blue Medicare card, plus your plan card if you have a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan. Pharmacies can bill Medicare for these shots, but it is wise to ask first whether they accept your coverage.
A word about RSV
RSV is a common respiratory virus that can be serious for older adults. The CDC recommends one dose of RSV vaccine for all adults 75 and older, and for adults 60 to 74 who are at increased risk of severe RSV. It is a single dose, not a yearly shot, and you do not need another if you have already had one. Your doctor can tell you whether you are in the higher-risk group.
Simple steps for getting your shots
- Call your doctor’s office or pharmacy and ask which flu vaccine types they have.
- Ask whether you are due for the RSV vaccine or an updated COVID-19 vaccine.
- Bring your Medicare and plan cards.
- Ask whether the provider accepts assignment, so you are not surprised by a bill.
- Keep your vaccine record card or ask for a printout.
Feeling tired or sore for a day or two is common after a shot. If you ever have a strong reaction, call your doctor or 911 for an emergency. Beware of anyone who calls or texts offering a “free” shot or asks for your Medicare number, payment, or gift cards. Real vaccine appointments never need that.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your own health.
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