Nine out of 10 healthy people who get a flu shot don’t get the flu, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It takes two weeks for a flu shot’s immunity to build completely, so now is the time to get vaccinated.
TRICARE will cover flu shots or flu mists at no cost to military families if they receive it from the 56th Medical Group clinic, a TRICARE network provider, or network pharmacy if given by the pharmacist. Getting shots at a doctor’s office may incur a copay.
The CDC recommends everyone six months and older get vaccinated against the flu, but children may resist. Try these tips:
• Go for flu shots together, and let the child go last.
• Request the flu mist if it’s a good fit for the child.
• If the child gets a “kid” bandage, wear one too.
• Finish the flu shot appointment with a trip to the park or a healthy snack.
To avoid the flu, keep active, get enough sleep, eat healthy foods and follow the steps provided by the CDC:
• Wash hands properly by scrubbing with soap and warm water for approximately 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth. Use a tissue and throw it away, or sneeze into the elbow of a bent arm.
• Manage stress.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
For more information on flu prevention, visit www.triwest.com/flu. To locate a TRICARE-covered pharmacy, visit www.expressscripts.com or call (877) 363-1303.
