2010 - 11 Flu Season Information

As your partner in health care, Group Health Cooperative of Eau Claire (GHC) is committed to supporting the health and wellness of our members. Entering into the 2010-11 flu season, we want to address some common questions.

On this portion of our site, we’ve included the following information:

If you have any additional questions or concerns, please call us at (715) 552-4300 or (888) 203-7770. One of our Member Services Advocates will be happy to assist you.


Who should receive the flu vaccine?

The seasonal flu (influenza) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. The flu virus attacks the body by spreading through the nose, mouth, lungs and/or lower respiratory tract.

The flu vaccine is suggested for everyone! On February 24, 2010 vaccine experts from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted that everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine each year. This vote for “universal” flu vaccination in the U.S. is intended to expand protection against the flu to more people.

The 2010-11 flu vaccine will protect against three different flu viruses: an H3N2 virus, an influenza B virus and the H1N1 virus that caused so much illness last season. Getting the 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.

Where to Get the Vaccine
If you or a dependent will be receiving the flu vaccination, please contact your primary care provider. You will need to receive the vaccine from a provider within our network. We cannot reimburse the cost of the seasonal flu or H1N1 vaccine from out-of-network providers.

Common Symptoms
The common symptoms for the seasonal flu and the H1N1 virus are virtually identical. They include:

  • Fever greater than 100 degrees
  • Headache
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Dry cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle aches
  • Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, can also occur, but are more common in children than adults. Stomach symptoms are typically seen more often in cases of H1N1 flu than seasonal flu.

This online flu self-assessment can help determine if your symptoms are characteristic of the seasonal flu or the H1N1 flu virus. If you are experiencing these symptoms and think you may have the flu, call your health care provider to see if a clinic visit is necessary.

In most cases, seasonal and H1N1 flu viruses will resolve on their own over time. Individual recovery time will vary depending on each individual’s health status. Laboratory testing for the H1N1 flu is rarely needed for effective treatment.

Tips for Flu Prevention
The flu is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through the air by the coughing or sneezing of infected individuals. By following some simple steps, you can help prevent the spread of the flu virus.

  • Wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly and often. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth between hand washings.
  • Get at least 8 hours of sleep each night so your body isn’t run down.
  • Eat a healthy diet, including five servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
  • Cough into your sleeve – this can prevent the spread of airborne flu viruses
  • If you are feeling ill, stay home. The CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

Additional Resources