Health-Tips

Nurse Advice Line

Nurse Advice Line

1-833-846-8773  Toll-free – open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Registered nurses are on hand to answer questions about your symptoms. They can tell you how urgently you need to see a doctor and may give you advice for self-care at home. 

More information

Get the Flu Vaccine

The flu vaccine helps protect you, your family and all those around you from the flu. Getting the vaccine reduces your risk of getting the flu by 40 to 60%. That makes it your first and best line of defense against the flu. 

Best reasons to get a flu vaccine

  • Getting the flu vaccine is easy There are many places that you can get a flu vaccine. HPSM members do not pay for the flu vaccine.
  • The flu still matters in a pandemic It is possible to get both the flu and COVID-19 at the same time. People in higher risk groups are also at higher risk of getting both viruses at once.  
  • If you don’t get the flu, you can’t spread it to others Getting the flu vaccine helps protect you and those around you from getting sick. 

When to get a flu vaccine

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone is vaccinated by the end of October. Even if you get vaccinated after October, the vaccine can still help protect you from the flu. So get your flu vaccine as soon as you can. 

If you think you or your child may have the flu, call HPSM’s Nurse Advice Line at 1-833-846-8773 before going to the emergency room. 

Where to get a flu vaccine

You can get a flu vaccine at no cost to you by visiting:

  • Your primary care provider's (PCP’s) office: call your PCP to schedule a visit
  • Your local pharmacy: find a location near you 

Consider calling first to make sure the flu vaccine is available  

Be sure to bring your HPSM Member ID card when you go to get the flu vaccine. While you’re getting your flu vaccine, ask your health care provider if you need other vaccines (such as pneumonia).

Who should get a flu vaccine

The CDC advises that almost everyone over six months old should get a flu vaccine each year. Getting vaccinated is most vital for people who are at high risk for getting severe flu symptoms. Learn more about who is at high-risk for serious illness from the flu.

If your child is afraid of needles, try these helpful tips! 

If your child is afraid of needles, getting them the flu vaccine can be hard. Use these tips to help your child conquer their fear of needles.