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FALLS CHURCH, Va. — Each year, flu season affects millions of men, women and children. Flu season usually begins in October, so now is a great time to protect yourself and your family from the flu by getting vaccinated. The flu shot is easy to get and inexpensive — often free — for TRICARE beneficiaries, and this year, the flu vaccine offers even more protection.
Until now, seasonal flu vaccines have only protected against three strains of flu — two strains of influenza A, which usually causes more cases and more severe illness, and one of influenza B, which is less common but also circulates in multiple forms. The new vaccines include protection against a second strain of influenza B, which experts expect will prevent the vast majority of type B infections.
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs. People suffering from the flu often have a fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, body aches, headaches and fatigue. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the flu virus spreads from person to person and can be more serious for young children, older adults, pregnant women and people with medical conditions. It can cause mild to severe illness and at times can lead to death.
TRICARE covers both the flu shot and flu mist. Beneficiaries may be able get their flu vaccine at no cost from a military treatment facility, hospital or from a pharmacist at one of the 45,000 network pharmacies that administer vaccines to TRICARE beneficiaries. Find a participating pharmacy at www.express-scripts.com/tricare/pharmacy or by calling Express Scripts at 1-877-363-1303.
The CDC offers additional steps people can take on their own to prevent the spread of germs that can lead to the flu:
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay at home when sick.
• Cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Wash hands often with soap and water.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth.
• Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food.
The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year. To learn more about flu basics, treatment and prevention, visit www.cdc.gov/flu. Get more information on TRICARE coverage and where to get shots at www.tricare.mil/flu.
