Health Center will continue to offer flu vaccines

The Student Health Center will be offering flu shots to students beginning on Oct. 3.

The vaccines were delivered on Oct. 1, according to Kiersten White, assistant vice president of Student Life.

The shot will cost $20, which students can pay by cash, check or Hawk Cash and will be offered on an ongoing basis. No appointments are necessary at the Health Center, located in Sourin Residence Center. 

Additionally, the Health Center will host flu shot clinics from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Wednesday, according to White.

Many health insurance companies will cover the cost of flu shots for their customers, so students who want to avoid the $20 cost should research options.

“Students should explore their options when deciding where to get a flu shot,” White said. “One way to do this is by contacting their health insurance.”

Last year, the Health Center canceled a scheduled flu clinic because of issues with background checks for Rite Aid employees, who were set to administer the shots. Instead, Health Center staff ordered the vaccines themselves and provided them to students.

Faculty and staff also have the opportunity to get vaccinated at the Wellness Expo, scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Oct. 30.  The expo will take place in Doyle Banquet Hall South in the Campion Student Center.

Flu shots provided at the Wellness Expo are free of charge.

Last year, faculty and staff were encouraged to sign up for vaccine appointments ahead of the expo.

Human Resources Specialist Daniel Krautheim said about 100 flu shots were available last year, but more than 400 people attended the fair.

“Not everyone receives one,” Krautheim said. 

Despite general advice for college students to get vaccinated, as residence halls serve as a breeding ground for viruses like the flu, many choose not to protect themselves against a potentially fatal virus.

Anthony DelConte, M.D., visiting professor of pharmaceutical and healthcare marketing, said he thinks one of these reasons is “a lack of understanding that such a simple step can protect not only themselves, but their classmates as well.” 

DelConte warned against the decision to forego a flu shot.

“I feel strongly that every student should be encouraged to get the flu shot this year,” DelConte said. “Younger individuals can have serious consequences from the flu, not to mention missing school and work.”