The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) believes that flu viruses and the virus that causes COVID-19 will both be spreading this fall and winter.

Where can I learn about the COVID-19 vaccine?

The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services is the place to start when it comes to learning about the COVID-19 vaccine. Click here to learn more. 

Why should I get a flu shot?

Flu vaccines have been shown to reduce the risk of flu illness, hospitalization and death. Getting a flu vaccine this fall will reduce your risk from flu and help conserve potentially scarce health care resources due to the COVID-19 pandemic. [Download flu vaccine information as a PDF here.]

If COVID-19 is spreading in my community, should I still go out and get a flu shot?

Yes. Getting a flu vaccine is an essential part of protecting your health and your family’s health this season.

Does the flu vaccine increase my risk of getting COVID-19?

There is no evidence that getting a flu vaccine increases your risk of getting sick from a coronavirus, like the one that causes COVID-19.

Where can I get a flu shot?

Flu shots are available through your primary care provider. If you don’t have a doctor that you regularly see, flu vaccines are also available at locations including health departments and pharmacies. New this year, children age 3 and older can get a flu shot at participating pharmacies. Visit VaccineFinder.org to find where flu vaccines are available near you.

Are there people who should NOT get a flu shot?

Yes, there are rare exceptions. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure about whether you should get the flu vaccine.

Need more information?

Visit cdc.gov to learn about flu symptoms and the difference between a common cold, flu and COVID-19.

What is the novel coronavirus?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases. The “novel” coronavirus is a new strain that has not been previously seen in humans. The virus causes a disease that has been named “coronavirus disease 2019.” You may see it abbreviated as COVID-19.

What are the symptoms?

Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death for confirmed COVID-19 cases. People who are exposed to the coronavirus may develop three main symptoms within two to 14 days:

• A fever of 100.4 or greater
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

How does the coronavirus spread?

Experts believe the virus is spread person-to-person. That includes:

• Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet)
• Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

What should I do if I get sick?

• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue away immediately. If you don’t have a tissue, cough into your elbow and wash your hands right away.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Also wash your wrists and between your fingers and thumbs.
• Dry your hands completely with a paper towel after washing.
• Don’t shake hands with people.
• Don’t return to work until your fever has been gone for 24 hours. A fever is a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher.

What is the potential impact for Vaya Health members?

Member health and safety is our top priority as we plan for the potential for this virus to spread to our communities. This is an evolving situation, and we will continue to provide updates on our website as needed. As always, we remain committed to supporting our members during this stressful time.

1. Our Access to Care call center will continue to operate 24/7/365. Trained staff are available to assist Vaya members, answer questions about services and provide help in a crisis. Please call 1-800-849-6127 if you have questions or need help.
2. Our care managers will continue to perform their responsibilities, including face-to-face visits, where required. If you or someone you live with thinks you (or they) have been exposed to the virus, please let us know before we are scheduled to visit you.
3. We are following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and making sure our staff engage in good hygiene practices. Right now, we are not aware of any Vaya staff member who has been exposed to the virus. If that happens, we will make sure the staff member does not come into contact with any Vaya Health Plan members from that point.
4. Note that DHHS issued guidance to relatives of members currently admitted to a State-operated facility.

How can I get more details or the latest updates?

To stay informed, make sure you get news and information from trustworthy sources, like the agencies and organizations listed below.

1. Practical information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): This webpage includes CDC recommendations to help protect yourself and others in your community from getting and spreading respiratory illnesses, like the novel coronavirus. “This page includes specific, concrete information about prevention, symptoms and how to know if you’re at higher risk for getting the virus,” said Vaya Health’s Dr. Lorena Wade, MD. “It also lists supplies to have on hand in case you get sick and can’t leave your home for a while.”
2. Latest news from the CDC: Information about the spread or the coronavirus and additional precautions you should take to avoid getting the virus are changing rapidly. Check this page often for the latest updates to help you protect yourself, such as activities you may want to avoid.
3. North Carolina coronavirus updates: Learn about how the coronavirus is affecting North Carolina. This webpage includes information the spread of the virus in our state and what health officials are doing to prepare and respond.