HealthPartners alerts patients to pneumonia immunization for protection against H1N1

August 18, 2009

Minneapolis, Minn. - HealthPartners is advising its members who are 65 years or older to get a pneumococcal immunization for protection during the upcoming flu season which will include both the seasonal flu and the H1N1 novel flu. HealthPartners is sending that message through the Online Patient Service function of its electronic medical record system, notifying members to either request the vaccine at their next office visit or schedule an appointment.

HealthPartners is also recommending the pneumococcal vaccine for people with some chronic illnesses and high risk conditions, regardless of their age. The vaccine does not have to be administered annually and can be given any time of the year.

"We want to make sure our patients have as much protection as possible," said Dr. Beth Averbeck, associate medical director, primary care. "Pneumonia can be a complication of influenza, and during severe flu outbreaks, it can lead to serious illness or death."

HealthPartners recommends that all patients, including those who get the pneumonia vaccine, get an annual flu shot.

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About HealthPartners
Founded in 1957, the HealthPartners family of healthcare companies serves 1.25 million medical and dental health plan members nationwide. For the fourth year in a row, HealthPartners is rated one of the best commercial health plans in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, NCQA's "Americas Best Health Plans 2008."

Contact: 952-883-5223