Your best defense against the flu is to get vaccinated. Fall is the best time to get a vaccination, particularly during October and November. However, getting vaccinated in December or later can still prove helpful.  You should get vaccinated as soon as the vaccine is available.

People at high risk for developing complications from the flu should get vaccinated each year. This includes:

• Children aged 6 months to 19 years;
• People 50 years and older;
• Pregnant women;
• People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions;
• People who live with or care for others at high risk, including:
• Out-of-home caregivers and household contacts of infants less than 6 months; and
• Health care workers

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends that all children ages 6 months to 8 years who have not previously been vaccinated should receive two doses of the vaccine.

While these are the current recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on flu vaccination priority groups and availability, remember to talk with your health care provider for the most updated information about the flu vaccine in your area.

Review Your Coverage and Protect Yourself

Flu shots are free for TennCareSelect and BlueCare® members. However, it is important to consider getting vaccinated regardless of whether your plan covers flu shots. Getting a flu vaccination each year is the best way to defend yourself against the illness.