UHS adds additional date for flu clinic

University Park, Pa. -- Students who missed the October flu clinics at University Health Services (UHS) have another opportunity to get immunized. UHS will offer an additional flu clinic from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 5 by appointment only. Appointments can be scheduled online at http://www.sa.psu.edu/uhs/basics/online_access.cfm or by calling the UHS appointment line at (814) 863-0774.
 
Shelley Haffner, UHS infection control nurse, reports that UHS has seen the first confirmed case of influenza this season. “There are a number of myths out there about flu and the flu vaccine. Students may think that only little kids or the elderly are susceptible. This simply isn’t the case.” Students who contract the flu can find themselves stuck in bed -- and out of class -- for about a week.
 
The risk of contracting the flu is high in a university environment where contact with many individuals is inevitable. Proper nutrition, adequate rest and frequent handwashing and general hygiene can help prevent illness due to influenza and other infectious disease. Immunization against the flu can also lessen the chances of infection.
 
For additional information about avoiding the flu this season, visit the UHS website at www.sa.psu.edu/uhs or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at http://www.cdc.gov/flu. Separate flu facts from the myths at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/flugallery/2007-08/pdf/f_factmyth_8x11.pdf. Additional information and resources on good hand hygiene are available at www.sa.psu.edu/uhs/wellness/handwashing.cfm.