IBC will cover the administration of seasonal flu vaccine for members whose medical benefit plan provides coverage for vaccines administered by eligible providers. As a reminder, IBC urges those who are ill to take the following steps to help prevent spreading flu viruses to others:

Stay home when you are sick to avoid spreading the illness to others. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue away after using it. Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and warm water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching the eyes, nose, or mouth. Seek care if you have flu-like symptoms.

Information is Key

As an additional preventive reminder, this fall IBC will launch its annual flu vaccine campaign delivering thousands of phone calls and postcards to urge some of its most vulnerable members to get their seasonal flu vaccine. To learn more about H1N1 and other Facts about the Flu please visit IBC's extensive web-based flu information center at www.ibx. Members can confirm their specific benefits by calling the number listed on their insurance card or 1-800-ASK-BLUE.

IBC bases immunization policy decisions on recommendations issued by the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and other nationally recognized organizations. The CDC's Advisory Committee is composed of 15 experts in fields associated with immunization who provide advice and guidance to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the CDC on the most effective means to prevent diseases that can be contained through vaccine.

Source: ibx