As flu season approaches, UCF Health Services encourages students and staff and faculty members to receive the vaccination and build immunity before the height of the season in February.
The shot – which protects against both seasonal and H1N1 flu strains—is $10 for students and $20 for faculty and staff. Appointments are required to receive the shot and can be made by calling 407-823-3850.
Getting a flu shot is considered one of the most effective ways to prevent the illness and protect others from it.
“With such a large campus population, your chances of being exposed to the flu are very high,” explained Megan Pabian, coordinator of University Relations and Public Affairs for Health Services.
“Should you catch the flu, most people need one to two weeks to fully recover. That’s time out of class and work that you can’t afford,” she said.
Other ways to stay healthy include covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze; washing hands thoroughly and frequently throughout the day with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing; using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water is not accessible; not touching your eyes, nose and mouth; and avoiding close contact with sick people.
For more information on UCF Health Services, visit www.hs.ucf.edu.