Why you should get your free flu shot this year
The best way to protect yourself this flu season is to get vaccinated. A flu shot is free for you and your family members who also have UPMC Health Plan insurance. To learn how and where to get your flu and other vaccinations visit: Respiratory Virus Season Vaccines | UPMC Health Plan
What is the flu?
Influenza, or the flu, is a respiratory illness caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. Flu viruses spread mainly through tiny droplets made when people with the flu cough, sneeze, or talk.
Why do I need the flu shot every year?
Each year, the strains of flu virus change, requiring a new vaccine every year for maximum protection. The CDC has recommendations for all respiratory illnesses, including flu and COVID.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges everyone older than 6 months old to get an annual flu shot. Some children 6 months through 8 years old may need two doses for best protection [1]. Getting the vaccine can help prevent millions of people from getting sick and/or from having to seek treatment from a doctor for flu-related issues.
Learn more by listening to our “Health Break” podcast episode on how to prepare for flu season.
Protect yourself and others
While anyone can get the flu, even healthy people, others are at a higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick. This includes people 65 years old and older, children younger than 5 years old, those who are pregnant, and those of any age with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease.
Treating and preventing the flu
There are many ways to decrease your risk of getting sick with the flu this year, including washing your hands, eating a healthy diet, and exercising.
The flu versus the common cold
The flu and a common cold have similar symptoms. However, flu symptoms are usually more intense than those of a common cold. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. If you aren’t feeling well, you can always reach out to your provider or the UPMC MyHealth 24/7 nurse line to discuss the best treatments.
Will antivirals or antibiotics help?
If you get the flu, your body’s immune system will kick into high gear to fight the infection. You can treat most of the symptoms with over-the-counter medications. In certain cases when your immune system needs some extra help, your doctor might prescribe antivirals for the flu. However, antibiotics are not effective in treating the flu or flu symptoms.
Have questions or need additional help?
You can talk to your primary care provider (PCP) about the flu vaccine, or visit Provider Directory | Find Care | UPMC Health Plan to find a new provider or find a pharmacy to get the flu shot near you. If you need help, you can contact a Health Care Concierge here.
UPMC Community HealthChoices participants who are enrolled in a Medicare plan will receive coverage for the vaccine(s) through their Medicare benefits. If UPMC Health Plan does not provide your primary insurance coverage, speak with your primary insurer about vaccination coverage.
1 Who Needs a Flu Vaccine. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Reviewed Oct. 3, 2024. Accessed Nov. 13, 2023. cdc.gov/flu/vaccines/vaccinations.html
