Jack's Blog on Medicare Plan Choices

As we step into 2025, the seasonal flu remains a significant health concern, affecting millions of people and possibly someone you know.  This year, the focus is on the trivalent flu strain, which encompasses three distinct influenza viruses.  I am not pushing the flu vaccination, I’m just passing on what I have learned. 

What is the 2025 Trivalent Flu?

The 2025 trivalent flu vaccine targets the following influenza strains:

1. Influenza A (H1N1): A subtype of influenza A that continues to circulate and evolve each flu season.
2. Influenza A (H3N2): Known for causing more severe flu seasons, particularly in older adults.
3. Influenza B: A strain commonly linked to flu outbreaks in children and young adults.

The trivalent formulation aims to provide comprehensive coverage against the most prevalent and potentially dangerous flu strains circulating this year.

Why Vaccination Matters

The flu is more than just a nuisance; it can lead to severe complications, especially for high-risk groups such as:

• Older adults (65+ years)
• Pregnant individuals
• Young children
• People with chronic health conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes, heart disease)

You may consider vaccination as a way to prevent the flu, reduce the severity of symptoms if you do get sick, and minimize the spread to others. 

Available Flu Vaccines in 2025

There are several options available for flu vaccination this year:

1. Standard-Dose Trivalent Vaccine: Designed for individuals aged 6 months and older, this vaccine is administered via injection and contains inactivated virus strains.
2. High-Dose Trivalent Vaccine: Specifically formulated for adults aged 65 and older, this vaccine contains a higher dose of antigens to elicit a stronger immune response.
3. Adjuvanted Trivalent Vaccine: Also targeted at older adults, this vaccine includes an added adjuvant (immune booster) to enhance the immune system’s response.
4. Nasal Spray Vaccine: A needle-free option for healthy individuals aged 2–49 years, the nasal spray contains live attenuated (weakened) virus strains. However, it may not be suitable for pregnant individuals or those with certain medical conditions.

When to Get Vaccinated

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting vaccinated by the end of October, though getting vaccinated later in the season is still beneficial.

Additional Tips to Stay Healthy

In addition to vaccination, practicing good hygiene can help reduce the risk of contracting or spreading the flu:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Stay home if you feel unwell to prevent spreading the virus.

Who Should NOT Get A Vaccine

Personally, I no longer get the flu vaccine.  I found out in the past couple of years that I am allergic to eggs.  That alone is a concern about getting a flu vaccination.  As a Respiratory Therapist, I received a flu shot every year for 20 plus years.  I did notice that some years, not all, I immediately came down with the flu after the vaccination.  I chalked it up to bad luck or just the gamble you take with vaccinations.  Now I understand that my egg allergy may have had something to do with it.  Bottom line for you: talk with your doctor and do your own research.

Your costs in Original Medicare

You pay nothing for a flu shot if your doctor or other health care provider accepts assignment for giving you the shot. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, the plan should follow Medicare’s guidelines.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 trivalent flu vaccine is a tool available to you right now.  Stay informed and stay alert.  

I used the following resources for my information:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
   • The CDC offers guidelines on who should and should not get the flu vaccine, including details about allergies, medical conditions, and age-specific considerations.
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA):
   • The FDA provides detailed information on approved flu vaccines, their ingredients, and contraindications.
3. World Health Organization (WHO):
   • Are you serious?  I would never consult the WHO for any creditable information.