Up-to-date vaccination, along with following health and safety guidelines,
is the best way to keep from getting the Flu and reduce its transmission to others.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE SICK
The symptoms of Influenza (the Flu) and COVID-19 are very similar, but the treatments are very different. If you have a fever, cough, or other respiratory symptoms, you might have the Flu. Most people have a mild illness and are able to recover at home. View additional information about managing your Influenza illness.
If you are sick, please stay in, avoid being around others as much as possible, and contact your health care provider for any symptoms that are worsening, moderate to severe, or concerning to you.
Those with mild to moderate symptoms with risk factors for developing severe disease and hospitalization may be candidates for outpatient Flu antiviral medications. You can find more information about Flu antiviral medications here. Contact your healthcare provider to see if you might be a candidate.
INFLUENZA VACCINES
Influenza vaccines are safe, effective, free, and available typically at no charge to the community through a variety of distributors, including both on and off-campus.
Schedule a Vaccine Appointment at the Student Health Center Pharmacy
Flu vaccines have a good safety record. Hundreds of millions of Americans have safely received flu vaccines over the past 50 years, and extensive research supports the safety of seasonal flu vaccines. Flu vaccines cannot cause flu illness; however, it can cause mild side effects that may be mistaken for flu. For example, people who receive a flu vaccine may feel achy and may have a sore arm where the shot was given. These side effects are NOT flu. If experienced at all, these effects are usually mild and last only 1-2 days.
Flu vaccination is not required for university students, faculty, or staff. In the interest of community health, however, it is strongly recommended. If you have questions about receiving a flu vaccine, please speak with a health care provider.
The FDA requires that recipients or their caregivers be provided a fact sheet before receiving any vaccination. The fact sheets are intended to help people make informed decisions about vaccinations.
View additional information about the Influenza vaccine on its Vaccine Information Statement.
Influenza (Flu) Vaccines at the Student Health Center Pharmacy
Influenza (flu) shots are available for students, faculty, and staff through the Student Health Center Pharmacy, typically starting in September and are usually available through March or April of the season. No appointment is needed. Walk-ins are welcome Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Campus Influenza (Flu) Vaccine Clinics
Flu shots will also be available at a number of convenient locations across campus. The Student Health Center is partnering with departments around campus to offer convenient access to flu vaccines to the campus community. Check the events calendar for dates and times.
INFLUENZA TESTING & RESULTS
Influenza testing is available for patients with symptoms through the Student Health Center. If you think you have the Flu and want to get tested, contact the Telephone Nurse Triage line at (865) 974-5080 to schedule an appointment at the Student Health Center.