Important updates on influenza prevention and treatment

Important updates on influenza prevention and treatment

As we continue to navigate flu season, we want to emphasize three critical areas to ensure the health and safety of your patients who are UPMC Health Plan members: Consider antiviral therapy when appropriate, encourage masking to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, and continue to recommend the flu vaccine.

1. Antiviral treatment is recommended as soon as possible for those with suspected or confirmed influenza who are at high risk of complications. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),[1] antiviral drugs work best when they are started within two days of flu symptoms beginning.

   Adults who are 65 or older, pregnant women, people with asthma or chronic lung disease, and those with diabetes (including gestational diabetes) or heart disease are all at increased risk of serious flu complications. Recognizing the increased risk for adults who are 65 or older, UPMC Health Plan will cover oseltamivir (generic Tamiflu) for UPMC for Life and UPMC for Life Complete Care (HMO D-SNP) members with a Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Benefit at $0 cost share.[2] A prescription is required, and quantity limits may apply.

   For more information on antiviral medications, please refer to these CDC guidelines.[3]

2. Wearing a mask is a prudent measure to help reduce the risk of influenza transmission. Encouraging patients who are concerned about their flu risk to wear a mask can significantly help in preventing the spread of the virus. For more information on flu prevention, please refer to these CDC guidelines.[4]

3. Please continue to advocate for flu vaccinations as clinically indicated. It is not too late for your patients to be vaccinated, and receiving a flu shot remains one of the most effective methods of protection against influenza. Ensuring that your patients are aware of the availability and benefits of the flu vaccine can help increase vaccination rates and reduce the incidence of flu-related complications.

UPMC Health Plan members can visit our Find Care webpage to see a list of retail pharmacies and other providers that are in their network.

As always, thank you for your continued dedication to patient care and for your efforts to combat the flu this season.

UPMC Health Plan does not practice medicine or exercise control over the methods or professional judgments by which providers render medical services to members. Nothing in these materials should be construed to supersede or replace the clinical judgment of a provider.