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Flu shots

The flu is serious, can lead to a hospital stay and in severe cases, even death. Every year most adults and children 6 months of age and older need a flu shot.

If you are you over age 50 or have chronic conditions, you’re at extra risk for problems with the flu. Getting your flu shot every year can help prevent the flu. And we cover it at no cost.

Why get a flu shot every year? 

Flu viruses are always changing. And your protection from the shot decreases over time. If you got a flu shot last year, it won’t protect you this year.

Getting your flu shot reduces:

  • Flu illnesses and doctor visits
  • Missed work, school and fun
  • Flu hospital stays and deaths

Can you still get the flu if you stay up to date with your flu shots? Yes, but studies show that the shot makes symptoms less severe.

When is the best time for a flu shot?

The best time is before the end of October. It only takes about two weeks to start protecting you after getting the shot.

Where can you get a flu shot?

Many health plans include flu shots for no extra cost. You can find sites that offer the flu shot. Or get it at your:

  • Primary care physician’s office
  • Pharmacy
  • Clinic or health center 

Who can get a flu shot

Who can get a flu shot

Most people can get a flu shot

The flu shot is a good idea for most people. Especially for adults over 65 because they are at higher risk for serious problems with the flu. Those who are pregnant, have certain chronic (long-term) conditions like asthma, diabetes, or lung disease are also high risk. 

Some people shouldn’t get the flu shot

Children younger than 6 months are too young. Anyone with a severe allergy to ingredients in the flu shot shouldn’t get it. Talk with your doctor first if you:

Other tips to avoid the flu

  • Stay away from people who are sick – if you’re sick, stay home
  • Cover your cough 
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • Clean phones, computer keyboards and anything else you touch often at work and at home

How flu happens

The flu is a virus that spreads from person to person. Coughing, sneezing or even just talking can spread the flu through tiny droplets from the nose and mouth. It can also spread when people touch something that has the flu virus on it. Then, they touch their nose, mouth or eyes. 

Not yet a member?

Call Member Services at 602-586-1730 or 1-877-436-5288 (TTY 711). We’re here for you 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 7 days a week.

What to do when flu happens

These signs and symptoms of the flu can last a few days or weeks:

  • Fever and chills
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • Feeling very tired
  • Vomiting or diarrhea (watery poop)

Not everyone will have every symptom. Vomiting or diarrhea is more common in children.

Prescription and over-the-counter medicine can help you feel better, faster:

  • Antiviral medicine: Ask your provider for a prescription. This medicine works best if you start it within two days of having flu symptoms.
  • Over-the-Counter (OTC) medicine: Helps manage symptoms, like fever, cough or runny nose. 

Many people rush to get antibiotics when they feel bad. But this type of medicine doesn’t work on viruses like the flu.

If you get the flu, you’ll also want to:

  • Get plenty of rest
  • Drink plenty of fluids
  • Call your provider if symptoms get worse

If you child is younger than age 5, they’re at higher risk for serious problems from the flu. Check with your child’s primary care physician (PCP) if you have questions or concerns about their health. Be aware of these warning signs:

  • Bluish lips or face
  • Chest pain
  • Dehydration (no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying)
  • Fast breathing or trouble breathing
  • Fever above 104°F or any fever in children less than 12 weeks old
  • Fever or cough that improves but then come back or get worse
  • Ribs pulling in with each breath
  • Failure to be alert or interact when awake
  • Seizures
  • Severe muscle pain (child refuses to walk)
  • Worsening of chronic health conditions

Getting a flu shot every year is the best way to protect them. Learn more about flu in young children.

It’s easy to get your flu shot

You may be able to get a flu shot at your PCP office. Or you can find a network pharmacy that gives the flu shot. You can also call us for help at ${MCA_MS_phone_1} or ${MCA_MS_phone_2} (TTY 711).

You don’t need a prescription for a flu shot and you don’t have a copay. 

More flu resources

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Questions?

Call Member Services at ${MCA_MS_phone_1} or ${MCA_MS_phone_2} (TTY 711) We’re here for you ${MCA_MS_hours}.