The Tennessee Department of Health will be on campus from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 15. or until supplies are exhausted, to provide free flu shots to faculty, staff and students.
Flu shots will be available in 206 Boling University Center. Those getting flu shots are asked to bring their insurance card and photo ID, if available. A questionnaire/consent form is given below; printing it out, completing it in advance and bringing it will help expedite the process.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older get a flu vaccine every season, with rare exceptions. According to the CDC, September and October are generally good times to get vaccinated, and most people should aim to receive their vaccine by the end of October.
The CDC says an annual flu vaccine is the best way to lower your risk of getting the flu and experiencing potentially serious complications. It can also mean fewer doctor visits, missed work or school days and flu-related hospitalizations. Even if you still get the flu after being vaccinated, the CDC notes that vaccination may make your illness less severe.
Getting vaccinated is a simple step you can take to help protect your health during flu season. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop protective antibodies, so October is a great time to get your shot.
Those with questions about whether a flu shot is right for them — especially if they have had a severe reaction to a flu vaccine or one of its ingredients — should talk with their health care provider.
