A resource guide for UPMC health plan members.
The best way to protect yourself this flu season is to get vaccinated. The flu vaccine is free for you and your family members with coverage under the UPMC health plan.
What is the flu?
influenzaOr flu, a respiratory illness in which a virus infects the nose, throat and sometimes the lungs. The flu virus spreads mainly through tiny droplets produced when someone with the flu coughs, sneezes or talks.
Why do I need a flu shot every year?
Every year, flu strains change, so a new vaccine is needed each year for maximum protection.
this Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Urges everyone 6 months and older to get an annual flu vaccine (some children 6 months to 8 years may need two doses for optimal protection [1]). Getting vaccinated helps prevent millions of people from getting sick and/or avoiding doctor visits for flu-related problems.
protect yourself and others
While anyone can get the flu, even healthy people, others are at higher risk of severe illness flu-related complications If they are sick. This includes people 65 and over, children under 5, pregnant women, and people of any age with chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, and heart disease.
Where to Get a Free Flu Shot
This free preventive vaccine is available at:
- Primary care provider (PCP) and pediatrician’s office. Find a doctor or provider in the UPMC health plan network.
- one in-network pharmacy, such as CVS, Rite Aid, Giant Eagle, Martin’s or Giant. *In addition to adult memberships, many pharmacies also vaccinate children. **
If you received your flu vaccine from an out-of-network pharmacy and/or require prepayment for the vaccine, you may submit reimbursement form.
If you have paid or been charged for a flu shot:
The flu vaccine is free for you and your registered household members, and will be reimbursed if you have to pay for it.
- To submit online, simply log in or register minehealthy online And fill out the flu reimbursement form.
- UPMC employees can submit online by logging in minehealth online And follow this path: Menu > Forms and Guides.
- University of Pittsburgh faculty and staff can log in to my.Pitt.edu and submit online by following the path: My Resources > Human Resources > mineHealth Access > Menu > Forms and Guides.
- To submit by mail, please download to reimburse form and mail it. (use this form If you are UPMC kids version member. )
Treating and Preventing Flu
The best ways to prevent exposure to the flu naturally include enhance immunitywash your hands and clean surfaces frequently.
COVID-19 and the flu
Keep up with your COVID and flu vaccinations. coronavirus disease vaccine Safe and effective. They are particularly good at preventing serious illness, hospitalization and death.
according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)you can get the COVID-19 vaccine and the flu shot on the same day.
For more information on benefits, coverage information, scheduling a vaccine appointment, and frequently asked questions, visit our COVID-19 Resource Page.
Flu vs. the Common Cold
The flu and the common cold have similar symptoms. However, flu symptoms are usually more severe than the common cold. People with a cold are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. If you are not feeling well, you can always contact your provider to discuss the best treatment.
Will antivirals or antibiotics help?
If you have the flu, your body’s immune system kicks into high gear to fight the infection. You can treat most symptoms with over-the-counter medicines. In some cases, when your immune system needs a little extra help, your doctor may prescribe anti-flu medications. However, antibiotic are not a cure for the flu, and their side effects may cause harm.
If you test positive for COVID-19, you may be eligible for further COVID-19 treatment based on your age, health history and symptoms.To learn more about antiviral drugs and other treatments for COVID-19, visit CDC’s webpage.
Have questions or need extra help?
The Health Care Concierge can help you find a new provider or get reimbursed for your flu shot.Call the number on your member ID card or visit one of our UPMC Health Plan Connection Center Locations Seek face-to-face help.
*As of October 2022, the pharmacies listed are in-network for members residing in Pennsylvania. If you are an out-of-state member or need further help finding a pharmacy, please call the number on your member ID card.
**In general, in Pennsylvania, pharmacists licensed under state law may administer the seasonal flu vaccine to children 9 years of age and older. During the current federal public health emergency, the PREP Act provides that state-licensed pharmacists may administer the seasonal flu vaccine and/or the FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccine to individuals 3 years of age and older. This provision of the PREP Act will expire on the last day of the emergency declaration or October 1, 2024, whichever comes first. See the Federal Public Preparedness and Emergency Preparedness (PREP) Act and its amendments for more details.
UPMC Community HealthChoices participants who are enrolled in a Medicare plan will receive vaccine coverage through their Medicare benefits.
[1] Get your child vaccinated. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Reviewed August 2, 2019. Accessed August 31, 2022. cdc.gov/vaccines/parents/diseases/flu.html
