As we approach the flu season in the face of a coronavirus pandemic, getting your flu shot this year is more important than ever. While it is hard to predict how COVID-19 will mix with the flu season, public health experts and doctors across the nation are urging people to get vaccinated not only to protect themselves and others against the flu, but to preserve health care resources that are already strained due to COVID-19.
On-site Flu Shots Update for Non-Remote-Enabled Employees
To ensure our employees and core contractors who are working on-site are protected against the flu, Occupational Health Services (OHS) will be providing flu shots at certain Exelon locations*. This service will be available only to those who are not remote-enabled and working on-site at the specific locations. To ensure we are adhering to proper health protocols and social distancing guidelines, flu shots will be administered by appointment only. We will not be able to accommodate walk-ins this year. Click to view list of vaccination locations and to schedule an appointment*
*Due to COVID-19 and to maximize the efficiency of and number of shots administered, only Exelon locations with OHS medical facilities and support will be administering on-site flu vaccinations this year.
Remote-Enabled Employees
Employees who are remote-enabled are encouraged to get their flu shot. For employees and dependents enrolled in Exelon medical coverage, flu shots are covered at 100 percent when provided by an in-network pharmacy or in-network physician or facility. For a list of in-network pharmacies, log in to optumrx.com or visit the site on the back of your ID card for in-network facilities or providers. Many local clinics, pharmacy retailers and major grocery chains are taking proactive measures in preparation for the flu season and to meet customer demand. Many retailers have also implemented additional safety measures meeting or exceeding the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. Customers can get their flu shot by walk-in or schedule an appointment. Some retailers also are offering drive-through flu clinics and flu shots curbside.
Why is getting a flu shot particularly important this year?
Preventing the flu is always important. The flu can be especially dangerous for young and elderly individuals. Getting a vaccine will not only reduce the risk of getting the flu or needing to seek medical attention for it, it also ensures we all are doing our part to conserve already limited healthcare resources amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Can the flu shot reduce my chances of getting the coronavirus?
No. The flu and the coronavirus are two different illnesses caused by two distinct viruses. No FDA-approved vaccine exists for the coronavirus, though many are in development.
When should I get my flu shot?
Flu activity peaks between December and February. This year, due to COVID-19, experts recommend people receive flu shots closer to the start of the flu season in September but no later than the end of October to ensure proper protection against infection.
How does the flu vaccine work?
Flu vaccines cause antibodies to develop about two weeks after vaccination. These antibodies provide protection from the viruses that are used to make the vaccine.
For more information about the flu, please visit CDC's website for influenza prevention.
Rest assured that Exelon is doing all we can to keep you and families, as well as our customers and communities, healthy and well during this difficult time. We encourage you to check the Exelon Coronavirus Information Center frequently for more important information and updates.
