October is the official start of flu season, and WellCare Health Plans, Inc. (NYSE: WCG), a leading provider of managed care services for government-sponsored health care programs, is reminding all members to get vaccinated by offering free flu shots at participating locations nationwide.
Fewer than half of Americans get an annual flu immunization, even though flu kills an average of 24,000 people in the U.S. each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Most seasonal flu hits between October and May, with a peak between December and February. The CDC advises everyone over the age of six months to get the flu vaccine by the end of October, but it’s never too late to get the vaccine as long as the flu virus is circulating. It takes about two weeks for your body to develop protective antibodies after getting the shot.
“The flu is more than just a stuffy nose or a sore throat. Flu symptoms can last up to two weeks, and for some — especially the elderly, young children or people with chronic diseases — the flu can lead to pneumonia and require hospitalization,” said Dr. Steven Goldberg, chief medical officer for WellCare. “Getting a flu shot is your single best defense against getting the flu. We encourage all members to visit their primary care physicians or participating pharmacies to get vaccinated to not only protect themselves, but also their families, friends and co-workers.”
WellCare members enrolled in Medicaid and Medicare Advantage Part B plans are eligible to receive a free flu shot. WellCare members under the following plans are also eligible:
Easy Choice Health Plan
Harmony
‘Ohana Health Plan
Missouri Care
Staywell
Eligible members can receive a free flu shot at any participating network pharmacy or their provider’s office.
For more information, or to find a participating location in your area, visit www.wellcare.com or call 1-866-530-9491 or TTY (All Plans): 1-877-247-6272.
The post Flu Season is Here appeared first on Live Trading News.