Do You Need A Flu Shot?

The flu (influenza) is a serious viral illness that can bring with it coughing, high fever, muscle aches, headache and sore throat. It is important not to confuse influenza with the more common stomach virus that may result in nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Due to the inability of antibiotics to work against the flu, you should get a flu shot to protect yourself. A new vaccine is developed every year because the flu virus changes frequently. As a result, you should get a shot every year if you are a candidate for vaccination.

If You Are At High Risk

The flu shot is always recommended for people who are at high risk for developing complications associated with the flu, including:

• Adults or children who have diabetes, heart disease, asthma or other chronic medical conditions
• Adults or children with a weakened immune system
• Children ages 6 to 23 months
• Women who are pregnant during the flu season
• Adults ages 65 and older

People at high risk for complications of the flu may not have the strength and energy to effectively fight the virus. The flu can be deadly for these people.

Contact your primary care clinic to set up an appointment or learn about special flu shot clinics. Discuss the flu vaccine with your primary care practitioner to determine whether it is appropriate for you. For most plans, you must receive your flu shot at your primary care clinic to ensure that it will be covered by Dean Health Plan (DHP).

Just a reminder: DHP does not cover the nasal flu vaccine, FluMist, because it has not been approved for use in all populations. If you have questions regarding your coverage, please call our Customer Service Department at 608-828-1301 or toll-free at 800-279-1301.

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