With flu season approaching, the New York Department of Health is encouraging people to get their flu shots and COVID-19 bivalent boosters.

Doctors with SUNY downstate say it is safe to get both shots together. They also say side effects like tiredness and soreness are normal.

"Double vaccination is common, even for children. Getting both the flu vaccination and COVID vaccination at the same time in both arms is not uncommon,” said Dr. Rami Nakeshbandi, Chief Quality Officer at SUNY downstate.

The bivalent booster is recommended for those over the age of 12.

The flu shot is recommended for anyone over 6 months old.