UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Flu season is quickly approaching, and University Health Services (UHS) encourages students to get vaccinated at their annual student flu clinics and through their #FightFluPSU 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. The initiative #FightFluPSU is an annual campaign run by University Health Services to help raise awareness among students about the importance of getting the flu shot and grant Penn State students the opportunity to get vaccinated.
“Cohort living, crowded lecture halls, and countless social activities make college students particularly susceptible to spreading flu viruses,” says UHS Infection Control Nurse Manager, Cecilia Devonshire. “Annual flu shots are the best way to protect yourself and those around you from getting flu. While there is still a chance of contracting flu even after vaccination, symptoms are often less severe. This means lowering the risk of missing classes, getting behind on assignments and missing out on time spent with friends. UHS hopes that by offering more opportunities for vaccination at the student health center, students will take a proactive approach to protecting themselves this flu season”.
The student flu clinics will be open from Sept. 28 through Dec. 5 in 204/205 Student Health Center from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Students wishing to attend must make an appointment via myUHS. Walk-ins are not permitted. The dates are as follows:
- Thursday, Sept. 28
- Tuesday, Oct. 3
- Monday, Oct. 9
- Friday, Oct. 13
- Tuesday, Oct. 17
- Thursday, Oct. 19
- Monday, Oct. 23
- Thursday, Oct. 26
- Tuesday, Nov. 7
- Friday, Nov. 10
- Wednesday, Nov. 29
- Tuesday, 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 with them to the visit. UHS will administer the Fluarix Quadrivalent 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 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 and #FightFluPSU can be found on the UHS flu webpage.