Did you get your annual flu shot? Flu season might be almost over, but it’s still a good idea to think about updating all your immunizations that protect you and others against life-threatening illnesses and diseases. Find out more details about the adult immunizations your health insurance covers as you take care of your health.
What Immunizations do you Need?
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends almost a dozen immunizations for adults. Here’s a short list.
*Hepatitis A – two doses*Hepatitis B – three doses*HPV – three doses for 19-26 years old males and females*Influenza – annually for all ages*Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – one to two doses for adults aged 19-54*Meningococcal – one dose*Pneumococcal 13-valent Conjugate (PCV13) – one dose*Pneumococcal Polysaccharid – one dose before age 16 and one dose after age 64*Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis – once then one booster every 10 years*Varicella – two doses*Zoster – one dose for 60+ year olds
How to Pay for Immunizations
If you’re covered by a Healthcare Marketplace plan or other private insurance, your immunizations are typically covered even if your annual deductible hasn’t yet been met. Talk to your insurance agent or healthcare plan administrator for complete details.
Other insurance plans also cover immunizations. Medicare Part B covers flu, Pneumococcal and Hepatitis B vaccines and pays for vaccines that treat injuries or protect you against any illnesses or diseases, including tetanus or rabies, to which you’ve been exposed. Medicare Part D uses formularies to identify which vaccines they cover, so discuss the details with your insurance agent. Medicaid insurance provided by your state can cover most of the recommended immunizations.
Where to Get Your Immunizations
Your primary care physician typically provides the immunizations you need. Your workplace, local pharmacy, health clinic or community center can also provide the vaccines you need.
Does Your State Require Unique Immunizations?
In general, every state encourages the same immunization schedule. However, you may find that your state’s health department occasionally updates recommended immunizations, especially during an illness or disease outbreak. Contact your state health department at http://www.statelocalgov.net for details. Additionally, check http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list for a list of recommended vaccines before you travel internationally.
Staying healthy is an important part of your life. Stay updated with adult immunizations.
