What you need to know about the flu shot
The flu vaccine causes antibodies to develop about 2 weeks after vaccination. These antibodies protect against the influenza virus.1
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone 6 months and older to get a flu vaccine. A flu vaccine can reduce your risk from the seasonal flu and potential complications.2 It is also the best way to protect those around you.2
People 65 years and older are at high risk of developing serious complications from the flu.3
Chronic conditions like asthma, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and kidney disease can also place you at a higher risk for complications.3
Children younger than 5 years old are also at high risk for developing serious flu-related complications.4
September and October are generally good times to get your vaccine. The flu most commonly peaks in February and can continue through May, so protect yourself and loved ones at the start of the flu season.1
Flu symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache, fatigue, body aches, and chills. If you develop these symptoms, contact your doctor right away. You doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs that help treat the flu and prevent serious complications.5
Contact your primary care physician today to set up an appointment to administer the flu shot. You can also go to any in-network pharmacy and present your CarePlus member ID card along with your photo identification. You can search for in-network pharmacy locations by using our
1 Key Facts about Seasonal Flu Vaccine. (2024, September 17). Retrieved on October 18, 2024, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
2 Prevent Seasonal Flu. (2024, August 26). Retrieved on October 18, 2024, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
3 People at Higher Risk of Flu Complications. (2023, August 25). Retrieved on May 9, 2024, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
4 People at Higher Risk of Flu Complications. (2023, August 25). Retrieved on May 9, 2024, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
5 About Influenza (Flu). (2024, August 13). Retrieved on October 18, 2024, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
Looking for additional resources?
-
Preventive Care
Seeing your primary care physician at least once each year may help prevent or identify concerns before they become problems.
-
CarePlus Link
CarePlus members can join educational presentations by phone or online on a variety of informational health and well-being topics.
-
Medication Management
Taking your medicine as directed is important for maintaining your health. Take a look at some helpful tips to keep your medicine filled and on schedule.
