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February Is American Heart Month!

Heart Disease is the leading cause of death in the US. About every 25 seconds, an American experiences a heart-related event. This February, take time to learn about heart disease, determine your own risk, and take steps to improve your heart health. For more information visit www.cdc.gov/Features/HeartMonth or www.heart.org.

This year’s flu vaccine is now available in most pharmacies and doctor’s offices. Since the flu season can start as early as October, getting the vaccine now can help you stay healthy.

With the county’s Southern Health coverage, you can get the vaccine for a $0 copay at participating pharmacies. Check with your pharmacy to ensure they participate with the Coventry Health Care Vaccine Program and have a certified immunizing pharmacist on duty. If you prefer to get the vaccine at your doctor’s office, a trip just for the flu shot will not cost you a copay. If you see your doctor for another reason and get the flu shot while you’re there, you’ll pay your usual PCP visit copay. Southern Health does not cover Flu Mist (nasal vaccine) or Fluzone HD (high dose flu shot).

If you don’t have insurance, the shot is available for around $30 cash price.

Here are some Flu Facts about this year’s vaccine:

• It contains the same 3 strains of flu as last year’s vaccine.
• Even though the strains have not changed, it is still important to be vaccinated every year because the immunity from the previous year may not be strong enough to protect you throughout this flu season.
• Everyone 6 months of age and older should receive the vaccine.
• It takes about 2 weeks to get adequate flu protection after the vaccine is given.

For more information about the vaccine and about the flu, visit www.flu.gov.