As flu season approaches, remember that Emory faculty and staff who are on the Emory medical plan can receive free flu vaccines.

Those covered by the Emory medical plan have two options to get flu shots:

• At a local pharmacy: Several local pharmacies offer flu shots (CVS, Walgreens, etc.). Emory employees/dependents on the medical plan can get a free flu shot at any pharmacy that accepts CVS/Caremark, our prescription drug plan. You will need to present your CVS/Caremark card.
• At your doctor's office: Emory employees/dependents covered on the medical plan can get a flu shot as part of a preventive exam at no charge (Emory Healthcare Network or in-network doctors only). However, if you have already had your annual 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.

Emory has discontinued vouchers for receiving flu shots at Kroger this year.

In order to be protected against seasonal influenza, you must get a flu shot each and every year. Circulating flu viruses change every year, and therefore so must the vaccine used to prevent them. The 2015-2016 vaccine will protect against three different flu virus strains: influenza A (H1N1) virus, influenza A (H3N2) virus, and influenza B virus.

Emory University employees who work in an Emory Healthcare (EHC) facility are required to receive the flu vaccination or complete a medical or religious exemption. Employees should either get their shots through an EHC Flu Marathon event or submit documentation to Employee Health that you received a flu shot through a local pharmacy or your primary care doctor this year. For more information, see the EHC intranet.

Emory employees not on the Emory medical plan should check with their insurance provider for flu shot options. Flu shots are free under the Affordable Care Act.

Questions about flu shots can be directed to the Faculty Staff Assistance Program at 404-727-WELL.