Early flu cases have occurred at Union this fall, and health staff are providing students on-campus flu shot clinics throughout the semester according to Paul Mayer, director of health services.
Normal flu season lasts from November to early December, followed by a reoccurring period starting February, but Mayer has seen a handful of cases this semester already. His number one recommendation to students is to take the flu shot.
“Part of being an adult and making adult decisions is being a good neighbor,” Mayer said.
He urged students to ensure they are not carrying the flu, not only for their sake but for the health of others they encounter at school. Keeping one’s hands clean, keeping hands away from the face and taking the flu shot are all precautious measures.
“I don’t know if that means it’s going to peak early and die out early or if this is just the beginning,” Mayer said. “The sooner you get vaccinated, the better.”
A flu vaccine will last all year. Mayer warned that the flu vaccine supply at Union is limited this year, as supplies to vaccines vary from year to year. Mayer also warned that the flu shot will never cause students to get the flu, as it is a dead virus vaccine.
Blair Baugher, senior nursing major, had the flu shot this year and commented that it took approximately fifteen minutes.
“As a nursing student I am required to get a flu shot, but it was a good experience and a good way to prevent from getting the flu,” Baugher said.
Flu patients are contagious two days before any symptoms are shown, Mayer said. He also said that those who contract the flu will be asked to be out of class for at least one week.
Students should not go to class with clear flu symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat and headache. The winter is the prime time for the flu to spread primarily because of numerous people living in close proximity to each other over a consistent amount of time.
For students interested in prevention of the flu, there are flu shot clinics scheduled on campus throughout the remaining semester. Pharmacy and nursing students give the shots as a way for them to participate in community healthcare.
Flu shots will be offered in Providence Hall Room 244-246 from 12:30 to 3 p.m. on October 14. Three more clinics will be held in Harvey Auditorium from 12 to 3 p.m. on October 15, 1 to 3 p.m. on Oct. 23, and 1 to 3 p.m. on Nov. 6.
The cost is $20 and can be charged to student accounts or payed for with cash or a check.
