Getting a flu shot each year is the first and best way to protect against influenza.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, during a regular flu season (October–May), about 90 percent of flu-related deaths occur in people 65 years and older. This is the primary reason to get your flu shot every year.

The flu virus is always changing, so the flu vaccine may be updated from one season to the next to protect against that particular year’s likely flu virus manifestation. Also, immunity declines over time, so getting the shot each year is best for optimal protection.

This vaccine is part of your preventive benefits so it will be of no cost to you if you go to an in-network provider. Don’t delay. Flu vaccination should begin soon after vaccine becomes available, ideally by October, but it is not too late to get the vaccines in December or January, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

You can get the flu shot from any in-network doctor or pharmacy. Most will bill us directly. If they require you to pay for the shot (most won’t), you can submit a claim to be reimbursed.

Flu Fast Facts

• You cannot get the flu from the flu vaccine.
• Flu is more than just a nuisance. It can hospitalize you.
• The timing and severity of influenza seasons are unpredictable. Get the vaccine as soon as it becomes available.

Test your flu knowledge with this fun little Flu I.Q. Widget from the CDC
cdc.gov/flu/fluiq.htm/index.html  

Other Great Resources  

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
flu.gov/at-risk/seniors 

Centers for Disease Control
cdc.gov/flu/about/season/index.htm 

Premera Blue Cross is an HMO and HMO-POS plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Premera Blue Cross depends on contract renewal. The benefit information provided is a brief summary, not a complete description of benefits. For more information, contact the plan. Limitations, copayments and restrictions may apply. Benefits, formulary, pharmacy network, provider network, premium and/or copayments/coinsurance may change on January 1 of each year.