The number of flu cases on campus has risen, and the TCU Brown-Lupton Health Center is offering free flu vaccinations to all students.

Health Services Administrator Stacey Simpson said the increase of flu cases was not anything to worry about.

“It is just the winter. People come back from Christmas break with the germs, and it spreads.” Simpson said.

Despite the fullness of the Health Center’s waiting room, this year’s flu season has been shaping up to be better than the 2009-2010 season, Simpson said.

“It’s not worse than last year. It’s a lot better this year.” Simpson said.

Last year, the university experienced an unprecedented number of flu-like illnesses, including H1N1.

This year, the vaccine includes prevention for swine flu along with several other types of flu, according to an informational flyer produced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“There is no reason to worry about the swine flu this year,” Simpson said.

According to the CDC, anyone who received a flu shot last year still needs to get one this year as well.

According to the flyer, influenza can occur at any time, but most influenza occurs from November through May. In recent seasons, most infections have occurred in January and February. The flyer was sent out by the TCU Health Center late last week.

The CDC flyer encouraged all people over the age of 6 months to be vaccinated.

According to the flyer, getting a flu vaccination late in the season can still be effective.

The Health Center will be offering vaccinations to all students until March, Simpson said.

“Right now is when the flu peaks, and then it dies down around March when spring comes.” Simpson said.

Where: TCU Health Center (next to the BLUU)

When: Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (The Health Center stays open until 5 p.m.)

Who: All TCU students

What to Bring: Texas Department of State Health Services Vaccine Consent Form