| November 11, 2009 |
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No flu shot yet? There’s still time
Medicaid and Medicare both cover flu vaccines
Contact Information
Janna Williams
501-212-8646
Think you’ve missed the boat if you haven’t gotten your seasonal flu or H1N1 vaccine yet? Don’t worry — when it comes to flu shots, late is better than never. While the H1N1 flu virus is already very active in Arkansas, the seasonal flu virus doesn’t usually peak until January or February. So there’s still plenty of reason to get vaccinated now. Medicare and Medicaid both pay for the seasonal and H1N1 vaccines, so there should be no charge for people who are covered by those programs. Many private insurance companies also pay for the shots. It’s especially important for seniors, young children and people with chronic health conditions like asthma and diabetes to get a seasonal flu shot. People in these groups are more likely to develop serious complications if they get influenza. Seasonal flu shots are available from many doctors’ offices, pharmacies (including discount stores and grocery stores) and through the Arkansas Department of Health. H1N1 shots are available through some doctors and the health department, but doses are still being reserved for people in high-priority groups, such as pregnant women and children. That is expected to change as more doses become available later in the year. The health department posts its latest information on the flu in Arkansas, including any planned mass vaccination clinics, at www.healthyarkansas.com. For 37 years, through utilization review, quality improvement projects, and public education, the Arkansas Foundation for Medical Care has worked to improve the health of Arkansans. Our mission statement: To promote excellence in health care through evaluation and education. Visit our online newsroom at www.afmc.org/media.