IBC will continue its coverage of the influenza vaccine (injectable or intranasal) for managed care members during the 2013-2014 influenza season, when a benefit for immunizations exits. In the United States, annual epidemics of influenza occur seasonally during the late fall through early spring. The influenza viruses can cause disease among individuals in any age group. However, the rates of infection and serious illness are highest in individuals 65 years of age and older, children younger than 2 years of age, and individuals of any age who have medical conditions that place them at increased risk for complications from the virus. Standard seasonal flu vaccination begins in September when the vaccine becomes available and will continue throughout the influenza season, into December, January, and beyond. This is because the timing and duration of influenza seasons vary. The 2013-2014 influenza vaccine will protect against the influenza viruses that experts predict are likely to cause the most illness during the upcoming season. Most of these vaccines will be trivalent (three components); however, there are new FDA-approved seasonal vaccines that will be formulated to protect against four flu viruses (quadrivalent). For detailed information on the IBC coverage of influenza vaccine for 2013-2014, please read the article posted on our Medical Policy website: >> [Coverage of Influenza Vaccine for 2013-2014] If you have questions regarding coverage of influenza vaccine for 2013-2014, please contact your Network Coordinator.