What is the flu shot?
Influenza (flu) vaccines (also known as “flu shots”) are vaccines that protect against influenza viruses that will be most common during October- February (flu season). The shot works by teaching your body’s immune system to create antibodies that protect against the flu viruses. Every year a new flu shot is created to help protect against new strains.
Why should I get a flu shot?
- They’re safe. – Hundreds of millions of Americans have safely received flu vaccines over the past 50 years, and there has been extensive research supporting the safety of flu vaccines, including those at higher risk of flu complications, like pregnant women.
- They don’t give you the flu. – The flu vaccine cannot cause flu. The vaccines either contain inactivated virus, meaning the viruses are no longer infectious, or a particle designed to look like a flu virus to your immune system.
- They protect you from getting sick. – A flu vaccine is the first and best way to reduce your chances of getting the flu and spreading it to others. CDC recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older receive a flu vaccine every year. Protection varies by individual, ranging from preventing the flu to lessening the severity of symptoms.
According to the CDC, “During seasons when flu vaccine viruses are similar to circulating flu viruses, flu vaccine has been shown to reduce the risk of having to go to the doctor with flu by 40% to 60%.”
When should I get my flu shot?
It is recommended by the CDC to get a flu vaccine by the end of October. It usually takes about 10-14 days for the vaccine to start working, and this allows immunity to develop prior to the height of flu season. However, it can still be beneficial throughout the flu season, even into January or later.
Does my insurance cover a flu shot?
The following payers will cover the flu shot and will process claims according to your benefits:
- Amerihealth
- Cigna
- Geisinger
- Health Partners
- Highmark
- Independence Administrators
- Keystone First
- Keystone Health Plan East
- Medicare (Pennsylvania)
- Personal Choice
- UPMC
- Veteran (VA) Programs
For all other payers NOT included above, including all Aetna and United Healthcare plans, patients will pay the current self-pay rate.
The cost of a flu shot is in addition to any other charges incurred during the visit.
You should delay getting the vaccine if:
- You are currently sick
- Have had a prior allergic reaction to the vaccine.
- If you are allergic to eggs, thimerosal or have had an allergic reaction to other vaccines.
- You have any serious allergies
- You have ever had Guillain-Barré syndrome.
For information about other vaccines – click here
Click here for more information about the Flu
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