Medicare and Flu - Influenza - all information

Flu Information 
 
What is the Flu? 

Influenza, also called the "flu," is a respiratory infection that's highly contagious. If you have flu symptoms, try to avoid contact with others to prevent spreading the infection.

How do I know if I have the flu? 

If you get the flu, you may have a fever, chills, headache, dry cough, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and muscle aches. Unlike the common cold, the flu can make you feel very tired or exhausted for several days, a week, or more. Most adults with the flu don't get an upset stomach, but children and some adults might have nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. What people often call "stomach flu" is not influenza.

How can I get the flu?
The flu spreads easily from person to person especially when someone with the flu coughs or sneezes. A person with the flu usually experiences symptoms within 2 to 4 days, and remains contagious for another 3 to 4 days after symptoms appear.

Will Medicare pay for a flu shot?
Medicare covers the flu shot once per flu season. With Part B, you pay nothing for the flu shot if the doctor or other health care provider accepts assignment for giving the shot.

When should I get a flu shot?
Flu shots are available starting in the fall, for the fall and winter flu season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends you get the flu shot as soon as it is available in your area.