Make sure you’re protected against the flu.

It’s that time of the year again when we need to remind all Fedhealth members about the upcoming flu season, and the importance of getting their annual flu vaccination.

Selected pharmacies across the country already have stock available and Fedhealth covers the cost of the vaccine, so there’s no time like the present. Here are some points to remember:

Why get the flu vaccination?

• Flu vaccines have been shown to reduce the risk of illness, hospitalisation and death associated with influenza
• Flu vaccination may also free up healthcare resources to prioritise the COVID-19 pandemic, as fewer patients are admitted with serious complications due to the flu

What does Fedhealth’s flu vaccination benefit cover?

• One flu vaccine per beneficiary per year from Risk on all options
• The flu vaccine admin fee of R36 paid from Risk (not your day-to-day benefit)
• We cover both vaccines which are available this year, namely quadrivalent (QIV) and trivalent (TIV) vaccines

What’s the difference between the QIV and TIV flu vaccine?

• The QIV flu vaccine includes four strains of the virus (two A subtypes and two B subtypes).
• The TIV flu vaccines include three strains (two A subtypes and one B subtype).

Both are covered by Fedhealth, and both offer effective protection against the flu.

COVID-19 vaccines and the flu vaccine

There is NO waiting period between administration of the flu vaccine and the COVID-19 vaccine. You may receive both vaccines at the same time, but in different arms.

It’s recommended that the COVID-19 vaccine is administered to the left arm, and the flu vaccine is administered to the right arm, noting the arm of administration on the vaccination record, where possible.

It’s still wise to practice COVID-19 safety measures when visiting your healthcare provider/pharmacy to obtain your flu vaccine:

• Call ahead to confirm that they have stock of the flu vaccination
• Schedule an appointment where possible; this will reduce your waiting time and help with social distancing 
• Wear a mask and sanitise your hands.

Ask your pharmacy or GP about getting the flu vac today.

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.