Free flu shots available for UF students, employees on Wednesday
January 14, 2013
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — University of Florida students, staff and faculty members can receive free flu shots from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday. This one-day event will take place on the front lawn of the Student Health Care Center, 280 Fletcher Drive. Shots will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. UF identification is required.
SHCC Marketing Coordinator Catherine Seemann said vaccination not only protects individuals but the entire community. With more than 100 cases of influenza-like illnesses reported and more than 30 positive cases in SHCC’s facility alone, flu is considered widespread.
“College students are generally healthy, but the flu is indiscriminate,” Seemann said. “This is not something that should be put off.”
The 2012-2013 influenza season started early and activity remains high in the United States. This may continue for some time. With that in mind, there are steps students and employees can take to protect themselves and their families. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a three-step approach to fighting influenza.
1. Get a flu vaccine.
2. Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs.
3. Take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them.
The cost of student vaccines will be covered by the SHCC, while Human Resources will supply vaccines for faculty and staff. The SHCC provides flu shots at various locations beginning in the fall every year. About 4,500 free flu shots have been given since September.
Additional information and directions are available via the following website