Fall is Here: Time to Get the Flu Vaccine
Posted on September 21, 2023
Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory virus that spreads when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. Even if you don’t feel sick, you can pass the flu onto someone more vulnerable than yourself like babies, other seniors, or people with existing illnesses.
Know the Facts
- Flu season usually begins in October, peaks in February, and ends in April or May.
- During a severe flu season, about 1 out of every 10 people will feel sick from the flu.
- It is best to be vaccinated against flu before flu season starts.
- Flu shots reduce flu illness by 40%—60%.
- Getting a flu shot also makes you less likely to spread the flu to others.
Certain adults are at higher risk for developing serious complications from the flu and should be vaccinated each year. These include adults 65 years and older, pregnant women, and adults with certain chronic medical conditions like asthma, heart or kidney disease, diabetes, and stroke. Check with your doctor to ensure getting a flu shot is right for you.
For more information about flu prevention, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/index.html
Reminder: Health New England covers the flu vaccine at no cost ($0 copay) when obtained from an in-plan provider. Get it at your doctor’s office or participating retail pharmacy, and bring your Health New England ID card to ensure you don’t have a copay.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/keyfacts.htm)
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