The Best Way to Prevent the Flu is to Get Vaccinated
Studies show that people who are at high risk for flu are much less likely to be hospitalized or die during the flu season when they get a vaccination. Because the virus types change, it is important to receive an influenza vaccine yearly.
The seasonal vaccine is very effective, but sometimes it’s still possible to contract the flu. Those who get the flu after vaccination usually have a milder case of the disease.
The seasonal influenza vaccine will not protect you from novel H1N1 virus. However, it is still important to get a seasonal influenza vaccine to protect you from influenza viruses that you could confuse with the new H1N1 virus.
"Seasonal Flu or H1N1?"
More information is available from Intermountain Healthcare on Influenza: Seasonal or H1N1? What you need to know and do at intermountainhealthcare.org/health/topics.
Click here to view Intermoutain Healthcare's Influenza fact sheet.
How does SelectHealth Cover the H1N1 Vaccine?
A vaccine has been developed against H1N1. Federal and local officials are deciding who qualifies for the vaccine and how distribution will be handled. These agencies will alert the general public when it is available.
In an effort to best serve our members, we will provide coverage for the administrative costs of the H1N1 vaccine. We will wave copays, coinsurance, and deductible amounts for all medical plan members who qualify. Administrative costs for members of self-funded plans will be covered unless directed otherwise by the plan sponsor by October 16, 2009.
Click here for the full statement on how we cover the H1N1 vaccine administrative costs.
"When should I get a seasonal flu shot?"
Yearly flu vaccination can begin as early as September. Since the seasonal flu often peaks in February, it isn’t too late to receive a flu shot in January or February if you are unable get one earlier.
Where can I get a seasonal flu shot?
SelectHealth Member Advocates® can help you find a vaccine clinic in your area. Call Member Advocates at 801-442-4993 (Salt Lake area) or 800-515-2220. Intermountain Healthcare also offers flu shots at ExpressCare clinics along the Wasatch Front. Visit intermountainexpresscare.org for a complete list.
In addition, SelectHealth members have another option for seasonal flu shots through contracted pharmacies.
- Intermountain Clinic Pharmacies
- Smith’s Food and Drug
- Walgreens
- Harmons
- SuperValu: (Albertsons)
- Kmart
- Target
- Associated Stores: (Dans, Lins, Maceys, and The Market Pharmacy)
"Can I take FluMist®?"
FluMist is a nasal-spray influenza vaccine. It is approved for use in healthy people ages two to 49. FluMist is not intended for people age 50 and older, for people with chronic illness such as asthma or a suppressed immune system, or for women who are pregnant. FluMist is also not recommended for children under five years of age with a history of recurrent wheezing. Talk to your doctor about the flu vaccine that is right for you.
