National Influenza Vaccination Week: There’s still time to get your flu shot

In addition to taking steps to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, make sure you get your flu shot.

National Influenza Vaccination Week (December 5-11) is a reminder that everyone 6 months and older should get their annual flu vaccine. While last year’s flu season was mild — likely due to COVID-19 prevention measures such as physical distancing, mask wearing, and virtual work and school — it’s possible the 2021-2022 flu season could become more active given communities have reopened.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that flu vaccination prevented approximately 7.5 million flu illnesses, 3.7 million flu-associated medical visits, 105,000 flu-related hospitalizations and 6,300 influenza-associated deaths during the 2019-2020 flu season.

There’s still time to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu with a flu shot. And you can receive your flu and COVID-19 vaccinations at the same time. Regence health plans fully cover the cost of getting a COVID-19 shot and most vaccinations at 100% when members see an in-network provider. Learn more by signing in to regence.com and reviewing your health plan benefits. Members can also sign in at regence.com or call Customer Service to find in-network options.