Many au pairs and host families are looking for places to get flu shots this time of year. Your au pair medical insurance is a type of travel insurance and it does NOT cover preventive care like vaccines. But there are lots of places to get flu shots for free or a small fee.
If a host family is urging their au pair to get the seasonal flu shot and she agrees to get it, the host family would be responsible for the expense.
If you are planning to get the seasonal flu vaccine, it is recommended that you get it as early as possible. Below are some links to help you decide where to go for a flu shot.
County and State Health Departments
- State of Maryland – Find a vaccine clinic search feature. Check back for updates and check your specific county health department website for more options.
- Anne Arundel County Health Department – Free flu shots are available by appointment and at some vaccine clinics, registration is required.
- Montgomery County Health Department – Free flu shot clinics, online registration is required.
- Prince George’s County – Free flu shot clinics, no appointment necessary.
Some host families have told me that they have taken their au pair with them to Kaiser Permanente and the au pair has received the flu shot even though they don’t have Kaiser Permanent themselves.
Local Pharmacies
Flu shots are also available for a fee at local pharmacies. Go to GoodRX and pick a local pharmacy discount offer to get the flu shot for $25 and up.
Because your medical insurance plan doesn’t cover vaccines, you should not present your insurance card. The claim will be denied and you will receive a bill in the mail.
Costco offers flu shots for $19.99 and up.