Talk to your doctor about vaccines and how to protect yourself from the flu.

No one likes getting sick. And some people are at higher risk of health problems from the flu. There are many steps you can take to lower your chances of getting the flu.

Common Questions About the Flu

What is the Flu (Influenza)?

• Flu is a respiratory illness that spreads easily. Viruses infect the nose, throat and sometimes lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness. At times it can lead to death.

Why are flu vaccines recommended every flu season?

• Flu viruses are always changing. Scientists predict which virus will be most common each year. Flu vaccines change each flu season to make them work as well as possible.
• Protection from the flu shot gets weaker over time. That’s why a yearly flu vaccine is recommended for most people.

Can the flu vaccine give me the flu?

No. According to the CDC, “flu 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. While the nasal spray does contain a live virus, the viruses are changed so that they cannot give you the flu.” That means getting a flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. But it can lower your chances of catching or getting very ill from the flu.

When and where should you get your flu vaccine?

• Talk with your doctor. Most doctors recommend getting your vaccine by the end of October if possible. Even if you do it later, it still helps protect you.
• You can get your flu vaccine in many doctor’s offices. You may also be able to get vaccinated in pharmacies, clinics and health centers. Sometimes schools and workplaces offer vaccines.

How do you know if someone has the flu?

The flu is different from a cold. The flu usually starts suddenly. People who have the flu often feel some or all these symptoms:

• Fever* or feeling feverish/chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Tiredness
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea. This is more common in children than adults.

*It is important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.

Where should you go if you have flu symptoms?

Visit your doctor or urgent care or call Member Services at the number on your member ID card with questions. From Oct. 1 to March 31, you can call us seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. From April 1 to Sept. 30, you can call us Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. A messaging system is used after hours as well as on weekends and federal holidays. You can also ask about medications that could help you feel better faster. Unless you have a very high fever or trouble breathing, you should not need to go to the emergency room for the flu.

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