Year to year, influenza vaccinations have an effectiveness rate of 50 to 70%. The CDC, AMA, and doctors everywhere recommend that all people receive yearly flu shots as part of their health maintenance routine. Unfortunately, most health insurance plans, including expensive PPO plans do not cover the costs of purchasing and receiving the vaccine, which can cost as much as $30 from pharmacists. This leads to a low rate of innoculation, and a great risk to society in general.
The Affordable Care Act should mandate influenza vaccine coverage by health insurance providers to ensure a healther nation. Flu accounts for thousands of deaths, and billions of dollars in health care costs each year. We have the tools. Let's fight the fight!