Although flu season preparation spans several months, early vaccinations present a unique advantage that demand special attention for adults 65 and older. At eternalHealth, we understand that maintaining your health and independence during flu season requires early preparation, awareness, and the right support system. We’re committed to providing you with the knowledge and resources needed to stay protected throughout the entire flu season.
The Critical Importance of Early Flu Vaccination as We Age
Flu season poses serious risks for older adults, with influenza-related complications sending thousands of seniors to hospitals each year. This statistic might sound alarming, but there’s encouraging news: with proper timing and vaccination, these severe outcomes are largely preventable. Research shows that getting vaccinated in August rather than waiting until fall can make all the difference in your seasonal protection and peace of mind.
Key Flu Prevention Benefits with eternalHealth
Your eternalHealth Medicare Advantage plan includes valuable services to support your flu season preparation:
Annual Wellness Visit
Schedule your no-cost annual wellness visit with your Primary Care Physician (PCP) and receive a $10 reward on your eternalPlus Benefits Card for over-the-counter items and if eligible, healthy groceries*. These visits are the perfect time to discuss your flu vaccination timing, review medications that may affect your immune response, and ensure you’re prepared for the upcoming flu season.
Free Transportation Support
Getting to your flu vaccination appointment has never been easier with eternalHealth’s transportation benefit. We provide free rides to medical appointments, including flu vaccination visits at your doctor’s office, and to participating pharmacies for your annual flu shot. This service removes barriers to timely vaccination, ensuring you can get protected in August without worrying about transportation logistics. Simply call our member services team to schedule your ride and vaccination appointment together.
Comprehensive Preventive Care
Take advantage of covered flu vaccinations and preventive services designed to keep you healthy during flu season’s challenges. Your plan covers annual flu shots at no cost to you, whether administered at your doctor’s office, pharmacy, or community health center. These routine preventive services are essential for creating a personalized flu protection plan with your healthcare provider.
Specialized Vaccines
Adults 65 and older benefit from high-dose or adjuvanted flu vaccines, specifically designed to create stronger immune responses in older adults. Your eternalHealth plan covers these enhanced vaccines, which have been shown to be more effective than standard-dose vaccines for seniors.
Stay Protected This Flu Season
As summer transitions to fall, cooler weather opens up opportunities for increased social activities and indoor gatherings. However, the approaching flu season can also pose serious health risks that deserve your early attention.
Influenza can develop when you’re exposed to flu viruses, especially during peak season or in crowded indoor conditions. For seniors, the flu can lead to potentially dangerous complications including pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death.
Older adults face particular vulnerability to severe flu outcomes. Managing chronic health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or lung disease, taking multiple medications, and having age-related immune system changes all increase the risk of serious flu complications.
eternalHealth’s Care Management Team is Here for You
If you need assistance scheduling your flu vaccination, finding convenient vaccination locations, or connecting with specialists who can help manage flu-sensitive conditions, our dedicated Care Management team is ready to help. We’ll navigate these resources so you can focus on staying protected and healthy.
Contact us today:
Call: 1 (800) 680-4568 (TTY 711) and ask to speak with a Care Manager
Email: caremanagement@eternalHealth.com
Critical Warning Signs to Watch For
Don’t hesitate to seek immediate medical attention if you experience flu symptoms such as:
Severe Flu Symptoms: High fever, severe body aches, persistent cough, difficulty breathing, or chest pain may indicate serious flu complications.
Emergency Warning Signs: Difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, severe dizziness, or persistent vomiting require immediate medical care.
Chronic Condition Complications: Worsening of existing conditions like asthma, heart disease, or diabetes when combined with flu symptoms.
Dehydration from Flu: Signs include excessive thirst, dry mouth, little or no urination, or dizziness when standing.
Your Optimal Vaccination Action Plan
Get Vaccinated Early: Schedule your flu shot for August to ensure full protection before flu season begins. Remember, it takes about two weeks to develop immunity.
Choose the Right Vaccine: Ask your healthcare provider about high-dose or adjuvanted flu vaccines recommended for adults 65 and older.
Plan Convenient Timing: August appointments are more readily available, allowing you to choose times that work best for your schedule.
Prepare for Mild Side Effects: Getting vaccinated early allows time to recover from any minor soreness or fatigue before important fall activities.
Stay Consistent: Make annual flu vaccination a regular part of your August health routine, just like other preventive care.
Boost Your Immune System: Maintain good nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management to support your vaccination’s effectiveness.
Take Action Today
Remember, preparing for flu season in August means better protection and peace of mind throughout the entire flu season. Our dedicated team stands ready to support you in achieving optimal health and flu prevention.
Contact our member services team to schedule your flu vaccination and learn how to optimize your seasonal health plan!
1-800-680-4568 (TTY 711)
October 1st-March 31st: 8AM-8PM local time, 7 days a week
April 1st-September 30th: 8AM-8PM local time, Monday-Friday
*The benefit mentioned is part of a special supplemental program for the chronically ill. Qualifying conditions include Cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, chronic and disabling mental health conditions, cancer, and ESRD. Having a listed condition does not guarantee eligibility.
Rewards expire at the end of the plan year and may be subject to applicable restrictions. Rewards are based on current eligibility status. eternalHealth may discontinue this program at any time. Consult with your doctor about the appropriateness of these services based on your risk factors and medical history.
eternalHealth is an HMO plan with a Medicare Contract for HMO, HMO-POS and PPO offerings. Enrollment in eternalHealth depends on contract renewal. To enroll in an eternalHealth plan you must meet certain eligibility requirements and reside in the plan’s CMS-approved service area. Benefits and cost sharing may vary by plan.
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