Facts about the flu

Flu season is fast approaching. Here's how you can protect yourself and your family from the flu.

How can I prevent the flu?

You can reduce your chances of getting sick with the flu or spreading it to others by getting the flu vaccine each flu season.

There are others steps you can take to protect your health and the health of your loved ones. To learn more:

• Read Preventing Flu: Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs
• Watch what real germ experts – kids – have to say! On this fun video, kids give advice as only kids can.

What vaccines are available?

The seasonal flu vaccine will include protection against the H1N1 virus and other flu viruses. Adults need only one dose. As always, children under the age of nine who have never had the seasonal flu vaccine should have two doses at least four weeks apart. 

The seasonal flu vaccine is available to members who have benefits for preventive services. It comes in two forms:

• Flu shot – We cover the flu shot for members age 6 months and older.  
• Nasal flu spray – Aetna covers the nasal spray flu vaccine as approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The nasal spray vaccine is available for non-pregnant, healthy members ages 2 to 49. 

Where do I go to get the flu vaccine?

If you're an Aetna member: Members can get flu vaccines from their doctor or one of our contracted flu vaccine providers. You can find a list of contracted flu vaccine providers under "Find a Flu Shot" on DocFind^® 

Note: California HMO members must receive the seasonal flu vaccine from their primary care physician. Flu vaccines given by the other flu vaccine providers are not covered. This note does not apply to Medicare Advantage HMO members in California.

If you’re not an Aetna member: Check with your doctor, or watch for notices in your community, at pharmacies, retail clinics, or from your employer about where you can get your flu vaccine.

Who should get the vaccines?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone 6 months of age and older get the flu vaccine. It is especially important for people at higher risk of severe flu and their close contacts, including healthcare workers and close contacts of children younger than 6 months, to get the flu vaccine.

What should I do if I have flu symptoms? 

If you become ill with flu-like symptoms, the CDC recommends you stay home and avoid contact with other people, except to get medical care or other necessities. Flu-like symptoms include fever, muscle aches, chills, cough, sore throat, fatigue and headache.

When should I treat the flu at home, and when should I call my doctor or seek care right away?

The CDC recommends you call or see a doctor or nurse if you have severe illness or you are at high risk for flu complications due to any of these conditions:

• Asthma or other lung problems
• Diabetes
• Weakened immune system
• Kidney disease
• Heart disease (except high blood pressure)
• Liver disorder
• Neurologic and neuromuscular disorders
• Pregnancy

Young children are also at greater risk for flu complications. If you can’t get to your doctor or don’t have a primary care doctor, find an urgent care center on DocFind^®.

How do I take care of myself or a family member?

• What to do if you get sick
• Taking care of a sick person in your home 

Consult the CDC website for more information and materials on prevention.

For information about your benefits for preventive services, such as the flu vaccine, call the Member Services toll-free number on your Aetna ID card.