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Coverage for H1N1 Vaccine

In preparation for a potential outbreak of H1N1 Flu virus, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health is creating plans to distribute a Flu vaccine to as many residents as possible. State officials in Rhode Island are making similar plans. Tufts Health Plan is collaborating with state agencies and the Massachusetts Association of Health Plans and will distribute information as it becomes available.

The H1N1 vaccine is being supplied through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and there is no cost to members for the vaccine itself. Administration of the vaccine is covered on all Tufts Health Plan products. For all products, public clinics are considered “in-network” for administration of the H1N1 vaccine.

Recommendations for H1N1 Vaccinations
The CDC does not expect a shortage of H1N1 vaccine, but availability and demand can be unpredictable. It is expected that the vaccine will be available in limited quantities, initially. Vaccines are being manufactured as fast as possible. For the initial supplies, distribution of vaccines will be prioritized to the highest-risk groups first. It is recommended that these groups are vaccinated first:

  • Pregnant women
  • People who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age
  • Health care and emergency medical services personnel
  • Persons between the ages of 6 months and 24 years old

Once the demand for the above groups has been met, these groups would follow:
  • People ages 25 – 64 years of age who are at higher risk for H1N1 because of chronic health disorders or compromised immune systems
  • Note: Seniors (age 65+) may already have existing immunity to the H1N1 virus from previous infections or vaccinations.

No one is required to receive the H1N1 vaccination. The CDC and its Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends that the above groups of people receive the H1N1 vaccine as soon as it becomes available.

Availability of H1N1 Vaccinations
The state public health departments are directing distribution of the H1N1 vaccines.
  • In Massachusetts, the Department of Public Health is distributing H1N1 vaccine to large-volume providers first. Vaccine providers (usually health care workers) must be registered with the state to administer the vaccines.
  • In Rhode Island, the Department of Health is distributing H1N1 vaccine to school-based clinics and pediatrician offices first. Vaccine providers (usually health care workers) must be registered with the state to administer the vaccines.

Details on clinics, providers, or retail locations that have registered to administer the vaccine are not yet available and are expected by early November.
  • Public vaccination clinics in Massachusetts will be posted on the Masspro Flu Clinic Web site.
  • Rhode Island residents should visit the Flu Vaccination section of the Rhode Island Department of Health's Web site.

Updates on the availability and timing of an H1N1 Flu vaccine will be made when we have further information.

Seasonal Flu
Flu season usually lasts from late fall through winter.  It’s important for some people to get a flu vaccine each year because the virus that causes the flu changes each year, and the effects of the vaccine do not last long.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), getting the seasonal Flu vaccine soon after it becomes available each year is always a good idea, and the protection you get from vaccination will last throughout the Flu season (typically late fall to February). If you are unsure about getting a Flu shot, speak with your doctor. Those who are at high risk for complications from the flu, and should receive a yearly flu shot, include:
  • People with chronic medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, asthma, or diabetes
  • People with an altered immune system
  • Women who are pregnant during flu season
  • People age 50 and older
  • Children between the ages of 6 months and 23 months
  • People who live with or care for someone who meets these criteria

The flu virus is spread from person to person through water droplets created when people cough, sneeze, or speak. You can protect yourself by keeping a distance of at least three feet from those who are ill, and washing your hands thoroughly before touching your nose, mouth, or eyes.

People who have the flu should cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and wash their hands frequently.

Symptoms of the flu can occur rapidly—usually within an hour or two—and include high fever, coughing, and muscle aches.  If you suspect you have the flu, you should contact your doctor.  If treatment is needed, the first 24 to 48 hours are critical.

Speak with your doctor if you are unsure about getting a flu shot.

Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs
A free and easy way to prevent seasonal Flu is to practice good hygiene every day:
  • Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently to help prevent the spread of germs.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick, too.
  • Stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
  • Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

More Resources
CDC podcasts
CDC Three actions to fight the seasonal flu
CDC What to do if you get sick
CDC 2009 H1N1 Flu and You 
CDC Social Media Catalog