UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Flu season is quickly approaching, and University Health Services (UHS) is encouraging students to get vaccinated at their annual student flu vaccine clinics and through their #StoptheFluPSU campaign.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. If not treated, it can result in mild to severe illness and, at times, cause death.
“College campuses are prime locations for rapid transmission and outbreaks of influenza due to close living and high levels of social interaction,” said Cecilia Devonshire, University Health Services infection control nurse manager. “Annual flu shots are the best way to reduce the risk of getting flu and are shown to reduce the severity of illness in people who are vaccinated by but still get sick.”
Devonshire said that healthy students may think they can forgo vaccination but instead assume the risk of other consequences of contracting the flu, like missing classes and exams, falling behind on work, and missing out on social activities.
“Students who get vaccinated against flu contribute to the overall health and well-being of the Penn State community,” said Devonshire.
For the first time, students who are interested in receiving a COVID-19 vaccination can also opt to do so during their flu vaccine clinic appointment. COVID-19 vaccines are in limited supply and must be scheduled in advance when reserving a flu shot appointment.
The student flu vaccine clinics will be from Sept. 26 through Dec. 5 in 204/205 Student Health Center from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on select dates. Students wishing to attend must make an appointment via myUHS. The dates are as follows:
- Thursday, Sept. 26
- Monday, Sept. 30
- Thursday, Oct. 3
- Tuesday, Oct. 8
- Monday, Oct. 14
- Friday, Oct. 18
- Tuesday, Oct. 22
- Thursday, Oct. 24
- Monday, Oct. 28
- Friday, Nov. 1
- Tuesday, Nov. 5
- Thursday, Nov. 7
- Monday, Nov. 11
- Thursday, Dec. 5
The flu vaccination is covered by most health insurances, but resources are available for students who have concerns about the cost. Students can reach out to the UHS case manager at 814-865-4UHS (4847) for more information.
Before arriving at their appointment, students must complete all required forms in myUHS, upload their health insurance card, and bring their student ID and appointment barcode with them to the visit. UHS will administer the Fluarix Trivalent flu vaccine, which is thimerosal-free and latex-free.
Students also can schedule a private appointment with a UHS provider — separate from the clinic — to receive a flu vaccine or COVID-19 vaccine via myUHS.
Students at Commonwealth Campus locations are encouraged to contact their on-campus health service, if applicable, or a local provider to inquire about clinics in their area.
More information on the flu clinics can be found on the UHS flu webpage.