Wednesday, October 28, 2020

While it’s not possible to say with certainty what will happen in the fall and winter, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) believes it’s likely that flu viruses and the virus that causes COVID-19 both will be present in our communities. The CDC strongly recommends getting vaccinated against the flu (influenza) this year. Flu vaccines take about 2 weeks for full immunity to develop, so we encourage you to get vaccinated as soon as you can this fall before flu starts circulating in our community. The first cases of flu usually occur in the winter months, but it can be earlier. 

Student Health will hold two free flu vaccine clinics for students on the following dates and times:

  • Thursday, Oct. 29, River Room, IMU (5 to 8 p.m.)
  • Tuesday, Nov. 3, River Room, IMU (5 to 8 p.m.)

Please come prepared and keep the following in mind if you plan to attend:  

  • You must bring your student ID.
  • Do not attend if you have a fever or any symptoms of illness, or if you've been tested for COVID-19 in the previous 14 days. A health screening will be conducted upon your arrival.
  • Please wear a shirt that has sleeves that can roll up and be prepared to completely expose your upper arm.
  • Wear a face mask and pay attention to signage related to social distancing and line spacing.

Student Health vaccination clinics are being planned with special consideration and vigilance because of COVID-19. Some aspects that will be quite different include attention to social distancing and spacing for lines and vaccination stations, face coverings for attendees, PPE for staff and students administering vaccines, and extra disinfection and cleaning. 

Can't make the free clinics? Schedule an appointment with Student Health!

The flu shot charge is $59, which is generally covered by insurance (the UI plans do cover the charge- check with your plan). The charge can also go on your U-bill.  

Call Student Health at 319-335-8394 to schedule an appointment; they are not accepting walk-ins for flu shots.  This year we just don't know how influenza will present itself during the COVID-19 pandemic.  

Worried about the flu and COVID-19? Read this CDC review of differences between the two illnesses.