Here are six things to know about the financial impact of the flu.
1. The 2015-16 flu season saw 11 million medical visits, 308,000 hospitalizations and 12,000 deaths. However, the CDC estimates the vaccine prevented 5.1 million illnesses, 2.5 million flu-induced medical visits and 71,000 hospitalizations that year.
2. On average, the flu costs the U.S. economy an estimated $10.4 billion each year in direct costs for hospitalizations and outpatient visits for adults.
3. The average daily cost of a hospital stay is $2,271.
4. Large pharmacies, like Walgreens, CVS and Walmart, offer the flu vaccine and accept most insurance plans.
5. Without coverage, Walgreens charges $31.99 for a shot to most adults and children. For people aged 65 and older, that same shot is generally $59.99.
6. Or, consider the cost of over-the-counter treatments and missing work. If the average hourly wage of American workers is $26.55, for those who do not receive pay for sick days, that equates to $212.40 — pre-tax — for each eight-hour work day missed, CNBC reports.
More articles on population health:
10 worst states for STDs
E-cigarettes with nicotine can up adrenaline levels in nonsmokers’ hearts, study shows
Scripps launches Apple ResearchKit app to study link between genetic risk, heart-healthy behaviors
Becker’s 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit is the top tier event that the people leading the future of pharmacy convene. This 3-day event is built specifically for Chief Pharmacy Officers and senior pharmacy leaders. The sessions examine the workforce, financial and clinical priorities shaping pharmacy today. Becker’s is where candid discussions flourish and new ideas thrive. Becker's 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit
