Living Healthy 4 It’s not too late to protect yourself from the flu! The winter season is here, which means that flu season is in full swing. From September to May, the flu is more likely to spread. This is why getting your flu vaccine each year is important to staying healthy through the winter months. The flu is more than just a regular cold. It can be more dangerous for older people, young kids, pregnant women and those with health conditions such as diabetes or asthma. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months and older get the flu vaccine every year. Children 6 months to 8 years old need two flu doses if it’s their first time. They Alternative formats Alliance members, did you know you can get your written information in different formats? These formats can help you if you have trouble seeing or hearing. Examples of alternative formats are: ■ Braille— small bumps or raised dots you can feel to read if you are blind or have low vision. ■ Audio or data CD—a CD you can listen to on a computer or a CD player if reading is hard for you. ■ Large print—bigger letters to help you if you have trouble reading small text. Want to try it? The Alliance member newsletter is available on our website in large print and audio format. If you would like other written information in an alternative format, call Alliance Member Services at 800-700-3874 (TTY: Dial 711), 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Wellness for all should get the second dose about a month after the first one. Good news for parents! Alliance members ages 7 to 24 months who get their two flu vaccine doses between September 2024 and May 2025 will be entered into a monthly raffle for a chance to win a $100 Target gift card! If you are pregnant, getting the flu vaccine is very important. It helps protect you and your baby before and after birth. Wondering where to get your flu vaccine? Try your doctor’s office or your county public health office. You might be able to walk in, but it’s best to make an appointment. If you are over 19, you can get a flu vaccine at your local pharmacy. Ask if you need to make an appointment. Getting your flu vaccine isn’t just good for you, it’s good for everyone! It helps stop the flu from spreading and keeps you, your friends and your family safe and healthy.
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