Influenza (flu) is an illness caused by the flu virus. It causes symptoms such as:

  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fever
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Feeling tired
  • Body aches

Flu season usually lasts from late fall through early spring.

How to prevent the flu

One of the best ways to prevent flu is to get a flu vaccine each year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that all people six months of age and older get a flu vaccine every year. This includes those who are pregnant.

Flu virus strains change from year to year. The vaccine must be updated to help prevent the flu viruses experts predict will cause illness during the upcoming season.

You can get the flu vaccine from your provider, walk-in clinics and even the pharmacy.

Health care providers advise getting the flu vaccine each year as soon as it's available in your area. Members can get the flu vaccine at no added cost.

Other ways to prevent the flu:

  • Wash your hands often. Frequent handwashing is proven to help prevent the spread of infection.
  • Carry an alcohol-based hand gel that has at least 60% alcohol. Use it when you can't use soap and water. Then wash your hands as soon as you can.
  • Try not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
  • Clean phones, computer keyboards (at home and work) and toys often with disinfectant wipes.
  • Avoid close contact with others who have the flu or flu symptoms.

If you get the flu:

  • Stay home
  • Wear a mask if you must go out to prevent spread of the virus to others
  • Talk with your provider about whether you should take antiviral drugs. If you have health issues (like asthma, diabetes, and heart disease), you may be at greater risk of flu complications. Your provider may prescribe an antiviral drug to help make your symptoms milder. These drugs also help prevent flu complications, such as pneumonia. They work best if you start them within 2 days of getting sick.

Keep up with your child’s shots

Health experts also urge parents to make sure their kids get all their vaccines on time during the pandemic. These shots protect kids from diseases like measles, mumps and whooping cough. The well child visits with shots are typically baby visits up to age 2 and at 4, 11 and 16 years of age. Call your child’s provider and ask what’s best for your child. Staff can also tell you what they are doing to keep kids safe during in-office visits.

COVID-19 vaccines for 2025

COVID-19 vaccines and boosters are covered in full for Tufts Health Plan members age 6 months and older when you receive them from providers in your plan’s network.  

Do I need to pay for the COVID-19 vaccine?

No. Your plan covers the COVID-19 vaccine in full when you receive it from providers in your plan’s network, so you won’t have to pay cost sharing. If you get the vaccine during a regular doctor’s visit or at an urgent care center, you may have to pay cost sharing for the visit itself. Check your plan documents for details.

Does it matter where I live?

No. If you have Tufts Health Plan coverage, your plan covers the cost of your COVID-19 vaccine when you receive it from providers in your plan’s network.

Where can I get a COVID-19 vaccine?

Vaccines may be available at your doctor’s office or at a local retail pharmacy that participates in your plan’s network. Please call or check their websites before you go to make sure they have the most recent vaccine in stock.

Do I need a prescription or written order from a health care provider to get a COVID-19 vaccine?

This depends on the state where you live. Most states — including Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island — do not require a prescription for the COVID-19 vaccine. If you have questions about whether you need a prescription, please check with your primary care provider or a local pharmacy.

Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe?

Yes. If you have questions about whether the COVID-19 vaccine is right for you, please ask your primary care provider.

Can I get a flu shot and a COVID-19 vaccine at the same time?

Yes. For most people, getting both at once is generally a good idea. It’s convenient, safe and effective, and it helps you stay protected as we spend more time indoors and head into respiratory virus season. As always, check with your primary care provider if you have questions or specific health concerns.