Key vaccines to consider this year

Key vaccines to consider this year

Use our vaccine guide to learn the best times to get immunizations for flu, RSV, COVID-19 and more.

An older lady who just got a vaccine

Staying current on your immunizations, including flu shots and RSV vaccines, can help protect your health all year long. Our helpful guide below will tell you which vaccines to ask your doctor about. 

Flu vaccine

Who needs it
Everyone, but especially if you’re 65 years or older or have a health condition. People over the age of 65 are more at risk of getting the flu and having complications.*

When to consider it
It’s recommended to get your flu shot in the fall, before the flu season gets into full swing.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

Who needs it
Adults 60 years and older and some younger adults with certain health conditions can get an RSV vaccine.

When to consider it
Before RSV season begins, which is typically in the fall. Your provider may recommend getting the vaccine between September and January.

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Tetanus-Diptheria-Pertussis (Tdap) vaccine, or Td booster 

Who needs it
Everyone. It will protect you against tetanus (a nervous system disease caused by bacteria), diphtheria (a bacterial infection) and pertussis (whooping cough). All are caused by bacterial infections. Diphtheria and whooping cough are very contagious. 

When to consider it
As soon as possible. If you’ve had a Tdap shot before, get a Td booster at least once a decade.

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Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Who needs it
Anyone who didn’t receive an MMR shot as a child. This will protect you against measles, mumps and rubella. 

When to consider it
Need to travel soon? You might need a second dose. Check with your doctor to be sure.

Shingles

Who needs it 
Adults 50 years or older need two doses of Shingrix. Had a different vaccine for shingles? Talk to your doctor — you may need another shot. 

When to consider it
As soon as possible if you had chickenpox as a child. If you didn’t, get the chickenpox vaccine right away — it will be two doses.

Pneumococcal (Pneumonia)

Who needs it 
Pneumonia is lung inflammation (swelling) caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Adults 65 years or older should be immunized.

When to consider it 
Most adults over 65 need one dose of two different vaccine types, a year apart.
 

Have a health question that can’t wait for your next checkup? 

Call the 24/7 Nurse Line at 1-855-493-7019 (TTY: 711) to speak with a registered nurse. If you need urgent or emergency care, call 911 immediately or go to your closest emergency room.

Meningococcal meningitis (Meningitis)

Who needs it
Meningitis is an inflammation (swelling) of the protective membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. Adults aged 50 or older may be at higher risk.*

When to consider it
As soon as possible, especially if you’ve been exposed to meningitis.  

COVID-19, or COVID-19 booster

Who needs it 
Everyone 6 months or older. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a second dose for adults aged 65 and older.

When to consider it
As soon as you’re due. Already vaccinated? Talk to your doctor to see if you’re eligible for a booster shot.  

We’ve got you covered for most vaccines

Your plan web page links to your EOC, which shows your coverage for recommended adult vaccines like flu and shingles. You can access your plan web page by using your smartphone or tablet camera to scan the QR code on your member ID card. You can also type in the URL shown on your member ID card to see your plan web page. Or call Member Services to learn more, at 1-833-570-6670 (TTY: 711) between 8 AM and 8 PM, 7 days a week, to learn about your vaccine coverage.

Need to find an in-network provider?   

Visit AetnaMedicare.com/FindProvider or call Member Services at 1-833-570-6670 (TTY: 711) between 8 AM and 8 PM, 7 days a week.

 

*FOR FLU RISK OVER AGE 65 SOURCE: Langer J, Welch VL, et al. High clinical burden of influenza disease in adults aged 65 years: can we do better? A systematic literature review. Advances in Therapy. February 15, 2023, 0(4): 1601–1627. Accessed June 23, 2024.

*FOR MENINGITIS RISK OVER AGE 50 SOURCE: Guedes S, Bertrand-Gerentes I, Evans K, et al. Invasive meningococcal disease in older adults in North America and Europe: is this the time for action? A review of the literature. BMC Public Health. February 23, 2022, 22: 380. Accessed June 29, 2023.
 

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