It’s that time of year again — when runny noses may be met with a slight moment of panic. Is it just the sniffles — or something worse? One of the best ways to help you stay healthy for fun, fall activities is to ensure your vaccinations are up to date.
Recommended vaccines are available at no cost through your Empire Plan benefits when using a participating provider or pharmacy. This includes vaccines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Protection (CDC) and Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).
The CDC recommends ensuring you are up to date on your COVID-19 vaccinations or boosters. Along with that, getting an annual flu vaccination may help you prevent or reduce the severity of a flu illness.1
It is also recommended to get the flu and COVID-19 vaccinations at the same time, including boosters.2 Both vaccines may help protect those around you from getting seriously ill, including those who are more vulnerable, such as babies or those with chronic health conditions.3
The RSV vaccine is also available for adults ages 60 and above to prevent severe RSV-associated respiratory illness. The RSV vaccine can be given with the flu vaccine.
In the meantime, there are other things you can do this upcoming flu season to help take care of yourself, the ones you love and your community:4
- Avoid close contact with others who are sick
- Stay at home, if you are sick
- Cover your mouth or nose when sneezing or coughing
- Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly
If you have any questions about the flu or the flu vaccine, talk with your health care provider. Your health care provider can also help you determine if you should have a COVID-19 booster and an RSV vaccination — and the best timing of those for you.
For help answering your general vaccine-related questions or finding a participating provider, call The Empire Plan toll free at 1-877-7-NYSHIP (1-877-769-7447) and press or say 1 and a Medical/Surgical representative will assist you, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET.
For additional health questions, call The Empire Plan NurseLine toll free at 1-877-7-NYSHIP (1-877-7447), and select option 5; TTY 711. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. NurseLine is a service available at no additional cost as part of your benefits.
Sources:
- Stay Up to Date with COVID-19 Vaccines. CDC, last updated Oct 3, 2024.
- Frequently Asked Influenza (Flu) Questions: 2022-2023 Season. CDC, last updated Oct 3, 2024..
- Key Facts About Seasonal Flu Vaccine. CDC, last updated Aug. 25, 2023.
- Healthy Habits to Prevent Flu. CDC, last updated Aug 26, 2021.