2014 Flu Vaccines
In order to be protected against seasonal influenza, you must get a flu shot each and every year. The 2014-2015 vaccine will protect against three different flu virus strains: influenza A (H1N1) virus, influenza A (H3N2) virus, and influenza B virus. Circulating flu viruses change every year, and therefore so must the vaccine used to prevent them. Even if you got your flu shot last year, you should be vaccinated again this year. For answers to frequently asked questions about influenza, flu shots and the 2014-2015 vaccine, visit the CDC flu website at www.cdc.gov/flu.
Emory Faculty and staff have several options for getting a flu vaccine this year:
- Kroger Pharmacy. Once again, benefits-eligible employees will have the option of downloading a voucher to receive a flu shot free of charge at a Kroger Pharmacy. You can download your voucher beginning October 6 at www.fsap.emory.edu/flu.
Non-benefits eligible employees can download a coupon to receive a flu shot at a discounted price of $24. Take your voucher (or coupon) and a photo ID to a Kroger Pharmacy between now and January 31, 2015. No appointment necessary! Find your nearest Kroger Pharmacy at www.kroger.com or call 1.800.KROGERS.
- Other Pharmacies. Several local pharmacies offer flu shots (CVS, Walgreens, etc.). This year, employees (and covered dependents) on the Aetna POS or HSA Medical Plans can get a free flu shot at any pharmacy that accepts Express Scripts (prescription drug plan). You will need to present your prescription drug card (Medco/Express Scripts). You can get your flu vaccine at any time.
- Your doctor's office as part of your preventive exam. For employees covered under one of Emory's medical plans (POS or HSA), you can get a flu shot as part of your preventive exam at no charge (EPN or in-network doctors only). Preventive exams are covered at 100% (which means there is no charge to you). However, if you have already had your preventive exam this year and make an appointment for a flu shot, you may be charged for the visit. The medical plan will only cover one preventive exam per year.
Important Reminder: If you are an Emory University employee who works in an Emory Healthcare (EHC) facility, you are required to receive the flu vaccination or complete a medical or religious exemption. You should attend one of the EHC Flu Marathon events to get your vaccination. Visit the Intranet (www.ourehc.org) for the schedule. If you decide to get your flu vaccination through Kroger or your primary care doctor rather than attending the EHC Flu Marathon, you will need to get documentation to submit with Employee Health to validate that you did receive a flu shot this year. If using Kroger, you will also be asked to sign a medical release.
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