[HEALTH.MIL] New Vaccine Protects Against Additional Flu Strain

From: HEALTH.MIL@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
To: <HEALTH.MIL@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>, <TFL@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Date: Thu, 26 Sep 2013 21:32:16 -0500

New Vaccine Protects Against Additional Flu Strain


TRICARE Management Activity

FALLS CHURCH, Va., Sept. 26, 2013 - Each year, flu season affects millions of
people. Flu season usually begins in October, so now is a great time to protect
yourself and your family by getting vaccinated.

The flu shot is easy to get and inexpensive - often free - for TRICARE
beneficiaries, and this year the flu vaccine offers even more protection.

Until now, seasonal flu vaccines have only protected against three strains of
flu - two strains of influenza A, which usually causes more cases and more
severe illness, and one of influenza B, which is less common but also circulates
in multiple forms.

The new vaccines include protection against a second strain of influenza B,
which experts expect will prevent the vast majority of type B infections.

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that
infect the nose, throat and lungs. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat,
stuffy nose, body aches, headaches and fatigue. According to the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention, the flu virus can be more serious for young
children, older adults, pregnant women and people with medical conditions. It
can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.

TRICARE covers both the flu shot and flu mist. Beneficiaries may be able get
their flu vaccine, at no cost, from a military treatment facility, hospital or
from a pharmacist at one of the 45,000 network pharmacies that administer
vaccines to TRICARE beneficiaries.

CDC officials also recommend steps to prevent the spread of germs, which can
lead to the flu:

-- Avoid close contact with people who are sick;

-- Stay at home when sick;

-- Cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing;

-- Wash hands often with soap and water; and

-- Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth.

CDC officials also recommend getting plenty of sleep, being physically active,
managing stress, drinking plenty of fluids and eating nutritious food.
 


Related Sites:
TRICARE  <http://www.tricare.mil/> 
TRICARE Express Scripts Pharmacy Locator
<http://www.express-scripts.com/tricare/pharmacy/> 
TRICARE Flu Resources  <http://www.tricare.mil/flu/> 
Influenza Basics, Treatment and Prevention  <http://www.cdc.gov/flu/> 



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[HEALTH.MIL] New Vaccine Protects Against Additional Flu Strain

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