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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Advisory Committee on
Immunization Practices (ACIP) has updated its recommendations for the 2016-2017
influenza season. As stated in the August 26, 2016, Morbidity and Mortality
Weekly Report (MMWR), the nasal spray live attenuated influenza vaccine
(LAIV) should not be used during the upcoming influenza season, as recent data
demonstrates relatively lower effectiveness than injectable influenza vaccines.
Consequently, Independence will not cover LAIV, marketed as
FluMist® Quadrivalent, for our members during the 2016-2017
season.
As a reminder, Independence covers influenza vaccines in accordance with the
published recommendations from the ACIP. The updated ACIP guidelines are
available here.
Independence will continue to cover injectable influenza vaccines for
managed care members during the 2016-2017 influenza season. The CDC recommends
annual influenza vaccination for all individuals six months of age and
older.
More information on the coverage of the influenza vaccine for Independence
members will be available in the News and Announcements section of our Medical Policy
Portal.
]