Flu season is quickly approaching, and college campuses are a breeding ground for germs because of the close living quarters. This makes it easy for viruses, like the flu, to spread across campus. An easy way to prevent the spread of the flu virus, and to protect yourself from the virus, is to get vaccinated against it.

Why they say flu vaccinations are important

There are many reasons to get vaccinated against the flu. The flu vaccine can help prevent you from getting sick.

“Flu vaccine prevents millions of illness and flu related doctor’s visits each year. For example, in 2016-2017, flu vaccination prevented an estimated 5.3 million illnesses, 2.6 million influenza-associated medical visits and 85,000 influenzas associated hospitalizations,” said the Center for Disease Control and Preventions’ official website.

Getting vaccinated can help protect those around you from getting the virus. The CDC’s website says, “Getting vaccinated yourself may also protect people around you, including those who are more vulnerable to serious flu illness, like babies and younger children, older people and people with certain chronic health conditions.”

The CDC recommends that everyone over the age of six months old should be vaccinated against the flu by the end of October to reduce their changes of getting the virus.

Where to get a flu shot

Places like Walgreens and CVS pharmacies are a great resource to get vaccinated against the flu virus. Both pharmacies accept walk ins and appointments. But, if traveling to a Walgreens or CVS pharmacy is not possible, the Panther Clinic offers seasonal flu shots. A flu shot at the panther clinic is $25.

“Students and employees must present their Drury University I.D. and insurance card prior to being seen. If there is no insurance carrier, payment is expected at the time of service for diagnostic testing or vaccinations,” says the Drury University website about the Panther Clinic.

The clinic is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with a 30 minute lunch break from 12:30 to 1 p.m.

Article by Marissa Mayfield