Medically reviewed by Shane D. Naidoo, MD
Medical Director, TrufaMED Urgent Care & Concierge Medicine
Board-Certified, Emergency Medicine
Last reviewed: October 2026
October is the peak month for flu vaccination in the US. Florida’s flu season can start ramping in November, so the next four weeks are the window to get protected before peak transmission. This post is the late-stage push: where to get it fast, what to bring, and what to do if you have already had flu this year.
Drive-Through Flu Shot Days
We run drive-through flu shot days at our Surfside clinic during October. Watch our homepage and social media for specific dates. The drive-through process:
- Pull up at the side entrance of our Surfside clinic at 9445 Harding Ave
- Show ID and insurance card
- 5-minute administered shot through the car window
- On your way
Most drive-through visits take under 10 minutes including the post-vaccination 5-minute observation.
Walk-In And Scheduled Visits
If you cannot make a drive-through day, walk-in and scheduled visits are available 7 days a week. Reserve a spot online to skip the waiting room. Visit takes about 15 minutes including paperwork and observation.
Pharmacies
CVS, Walgreens, Publix, and Costco all administer flu shots throughout October. Pharmacy is convenient but pharmacy staff are not equipped for clinical questions; if you have specific concerns about the vaccine for your situation, a clinical visit is more appropriate.
What To Bring
- Photo ID
- Insurance card
- Short-sleeve shirt or one that easily exposes the upper arm
- List of any medications and allergies
If You Already Had Flu This Year
Get vaccinated anyway. Multiple flu strains circulate; immunity from one infection does not protect against the others. The vaccine covers four strains. If you had flu A this year, the vaccine still protects you against the other strains likely to circulate.
If You Are High-Risk
Adults 65+, pregnant women, immunocompromised patients, and patients with chronic medical conditions should get the high-dose, adjuvanted, or recombinant formulation as appropriate. We carry all options. Ask at intake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it too late to get the flu shot in October?
No, October is peak flu vaccination month. Protection takes about two weeks to develop, putting you ahead of peak transmission.
Can I get COVID booster and flu shot the same visit?
Yes, recommended. Opposite arms.
Do you take walk-ins for flu shots?
Yes, all clinic hours. The drive-through days are faster if available.
Will the shot make me feel sick?
Sore arm for a day, mild fatigue or low-grade fever in some patients. Not the flu — immune response. Usually resolves in 24 to 48 hours.