Published by Dr. Matt on September 18th, 2025

As a physician, I see firsthand how flu season impacts individuals, families, and workplaces. The good news? Most flu-related illnesses are preventable. With a few simple steps — starting with the flu shot — you can protect yourself and those around you. In this article, I’ll walk you through the most effective ways to stay healthy this season, and how your health plan supports you along the way.

What You Should Know About the Flu

Influenza is a contagious respiratory virus that spreads easily through droplets when people cough, sneeze, or talk. It can also be picked up from contaminated surfaces. Symptoms range from mild to severe and include fever, chills, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue.

Data from the 2010-2024 U.S. flu seasons estimates that the flu leads to1:
  • 120,000 to 710,000 hospitalizations annually; and
  • 6,300 to 52,000 deaths annually
The flu isn't just a bad cold — it can be serious, especially for older adults, young children, and people with chronic conditions. Prevention is key.

Why the Flu Shot May Be Your Best Defense

The flu vaccine is updated annually to match circulating strains and is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older.2 It’s safe, effective, and widely available.

What the Flu Shot Does:

  • Reduces your risk of having to go to the doctor with the flu by up to 60% when well-matched to the season’s strains3
  • Helps prevent flu-related complications like pneumonia and hospitalization
  • Helps protect your community, especially those who can’t be vaccinated
I always tell my patients: getting the flu shot is one of the easiest ways to protect your health. It’s quick, covered by most health insurance plans, and it is typically highly effective.

Common Misconceptions4:

  • “The flu shot gives you the flu.”  
    • While the flu may occasionally cause flu-like side effects, it does not cause the flu. The vaccine contains inactivated virus or no virus at all.
  • “I’m healthy, so I don’t need it.”
    • Even healthy people can get the flu and spread it to others.

Everyday Prevention Tips

In addition to the flu shot, these habits go a long way in helping to keep you healthy:

1. Wash Your Hands Often

Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Hand sanitizer is a good backup when soap isn’t available.

2. Avoid Close Contact

Stay away from people who are sick and distance yourself from others if you’re feeling under the weather.

3. Cover Coughs and Sneezes

Use a tissue or your elbow — not your hands. Dispose of tissues immediately and wash your hands.

4. Disinfect Surfaces

Clean high-touch areas like doorknobs, phones, and keyboards regularly.

5. Stay Home When Sick

If you’re feeling flu-like symptoms, rest and recover at home to avoid spreading illness.

6. Boost Your Immune System

Eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, stay active, and manage stress.

Prevention isn’t just about one thing — it’s about layering your defenses. The flu shot, good hygiene, and healthy habits all work together. 

When to Get Vaccinated

The CDC recommends getting vaccinated by the end of October2. But it’s never too late — flu season can last into spring, and protection is valuable even later in the season.

How Your Health Plan Supports You

Your health plan is designed to help you stay well — not just treat illness. Here’s how it supports flu prevention:
  • No-cost for flu shots received at in-network providers and pharmacies
  • The Trusted Member Care team is available to answer questions and help you find providers, just call 800-522-1246
  • Educational resources like this blog and monthly emails

A Quick Note on Telemedicine

If you do get sick, telemedicine offers a convenient way to consult with a provider from home. It can be especially helpful for flu symptoms, allowing you to get care quickly without visiting a clinic. Many plans offer telemedicine at low or no cost—check your member portal or contact Trusted Member Care for details.

Take Action Today

  • Schedule your flu shot
  • Practice daily prevention habits
  • If you have questions, reach out to Trusted Member Care at 800-522-1246
Flu season doesn’t have to mean getting sick. With the right tools and support, you can stay healthy and enjoy the season with confidence.


1About Estimated Flu Burden. CDC. 11.13.24. 
2Preventing Seasonal Flu. CDC. 8.26.2024.
3Benefits of the Flu Vaccine. CDC. 8/14/2024.
4Misconceptions About Seasonal Flu and Flu Vaccines. CDC. 9/6/2024.

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