Did You Get a Flu Shot?
The flu (influenza) is a serious viral illness that can bring coughing,
chills, muscle aches, high fever and headaches. A flu shot is suggested
every year due to the frequent changes in the flu virus.
With these viral changes, a new vaccine is developed annually.
The flu is a respiratory illness and cannot be treated by antibiotics, but it
can be protected against by a flu shot.
Are you at high risk for the flu? People at high risk for complications from the flu may not have the strength and energy to effectively fight the influenza virus. Those at high risk include:
- People with diabetes, heart disease, asthma or other chronic medical conditions
- People with a weakened immune system
- Children ages 6 months to 5 years
- Women who are pregnant during flu season
- Adults ages 50 and older
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). Beginning this year, DHP will cover the nasal inhaled vaccine, FluMist®, for children ages 2 to 6 years.
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