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Flu Shot

What it is:

This shot can keep you from getting the flu.

Why it’s important:

You can get very sick or even die from the flu. It also can cause pneumonia. The flu can be dangerous for people age 50 and older. You need a flu shot each year because flu viruses are always changing. Each year, they make a new shot that fights that year’s viruses.

Also, the flu shot only helps protect you from the flu for about one year. You may still get the flu if you get a shot, but you will not get as sick. You should get a flu shot in the late fall or early winter.

This year Medicare is covering the special vaccine against the H1N1 flu. The H1N1 flu can be very dangerous for people who have certain medical conditions. You should talk to your health care provider about whether you should get this vaccine too, in addition to the regular flu shot.

Who is covered:

Anyone with Medicare can get their flu shot covered by Medicare.

How often it’s covered:

The regular flu shot is generally covered once each year during the fall or winter. Ask your doctor where you can get a flu shot. In addition, check with your doctor about whether you should get this year’s special H1N1 flu shot.

What you pay:

You pay nothing for either of these vaccines.

Learn more about flu shots on Medicare.gov.