University Health Services (UHS) strongly encourages all students to get vaccinated against both H1N1 and seasonal flu. Public health officials predict that another wave of H1N1 influenza is likely in the U.S. later this winter or spring. Seasonal flu typically increases at this time as well.
A walk-in clinic for both the H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccines will be held from noon to 6 p.m. on Jan. 27, in room 205 of the Student Health Center. The H1N1 vaccination is free and available to all Penn State students. Alternate appointment times are available by scheduling online through the UHS Web site or calling the appointment line. University Park students also may receive the seasonal flu vaccine at UHS at a cost of $26.
An adequate immune response to the vaccine takes approximately 14 days. Getting vaccinated now will prevent illness from H1N1 and seasonal flu during THON and other spring activities. In a special message to THON participants, David Unger, clinical director of pediatric oncology at Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital said, "Please make some time this week to go get your flu shots to help keep our Four Diamonds kids healthy."
"Children who are cancer survivors and may have weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable to influenza," said Margaret Spear, UHS director. "Students who are dancing or working at THON should consider the safety of these children while deciding about their own vaccination."
H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccines can be administered at the same appointment. The $26 fee for seasonal flu vaccine is charged to the student's bursar account. Students are required to present their student ID and encouraged to wear a short-sleeved shirt on the day of vaccination. Appointments can be scheduled online at http://www.sa.psu.edu/uhs/basics/online_access.cfm or by calling 814-863-0774.
The CDC provides information that can help students make informed decisions about vaccination at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/keyfacts.htm and http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/public/vaccination_qa_pub.htm online. For the latest news and information about the flu at Penn State, visit http://flu.psu.edu/ online.