UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Seasonal virus activity has increased since the holiday season, with influenza-like activity high in two-thirds of the country, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Students may be at risk for respiratory illnesses because of exposure through common living spaces, classrooms, shared restrooms and social activities.  

University Health Services (UHS) is encouraging Penn State students and employees to stay current with vaccinations and practice healthy hygiene habits.

According to the CDC, low vaccination rates and ongoing increases in national and international respiratory disease activity caused by multiple pathogens, including influenza viruses, SARS-CoV-2, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), could lead to more severe disease and increased strain on health care capacity in the coming weeks. COVID-19 remains the leading cause of respiratory hospitalizations nationally, with flu admissions rising, according to the CDC. 

“COVID-19 vaccines have been deemed safe by the FDA,” said Rebecca Simcik, UHS medical director. “They meet rigorous testing criteria and effectively prevent serious illness, hospitalization and death. Flu vaccines have an excellent safety profile and continue to be our best defense against serious illness from flu. Staying up to date with COVID-19 and flu vaccines now means less missed time at class, with friends, and attending special events such as THON.”  

UHS continues to offer annual flu shots and the updated Moderna (Spikevax) COVID-19 vaccine. Students can schedule an appointment at the Student Health Center via myUHS or by calling 814-865-4UHS (4847), option 2. UHS is partnering with Residence Life to offer flu shots in selected commons areas at University Park.

“We hope that by bringing flu shots to the residence halls, we can get more students vaccinated to start the semester on a strong note,” said Cecilia Devonshire, UHS infection control nurse manager. “THON is right around the corner, Feb. 16-18, and getting vaccinated in January reduces the chances of catching the flu or getting very sick from flu in time for the event. We also strongly recommend that anyone attending THON receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine. People who are not feeling well in the days leading up to THON should stay home to ensure Four Diamonds kids, their families, and all participants are as protected as possible from exposure to seasonal viruses.” 

Spring 2024 flu shot clinics at University Park will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the following dates: 

• Tuesday, Jan. 9, at Pollock Commons. 

• Thursday, Jan. 18, at Findlay/Johnston Commons in East Halls.

• Monday, Jan. 22, at Warnock Commons in North Halls.

• Friday, Jan. 26, at Waring Commons in West Halls.

• Tuesday, Jan. 30, at Redifer Commons in South Halls.

Students at Penn State Commonwealth Campus locations are encouraged to contact their on-campus health service (if applicable) or local provider to inquire about clinics in their area.

Penn State employees and their dependents (age 18 and older) enrolled in the Penn State health insurance plan can receive their flu vaccine at the UHS Pharmacy on campus near the Eisenhower Parking Deck. The pharmacy schedules immunizations Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 7:30-9:30 a.m. and Wednesday from 9-10 a.m. Call the pharmacy to schedule a time at 814-865-4847, option 1. 

For more information on the flu clinics, visit the UHS flu webpage.