Flu season isn’t expected to peak until late fall, but TCU is getting a head start on staying healthy.
The annual flu clinic will offer flu shots on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 8 a.m. on Oct. 2 in the University Recreation Center.
“We are trying to do this early so the vaccine can have two weeks to take effect as students, faculty and even groundskeepers can be protected,” said Sharon Canclini, an assistant professor of professional practice in the Harris College of Nursing who’s also coordinating the event.
There’s currently very little flu activity, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). That’s expected to change, however.
“The peak of the flu season is late fall to early winter, but we have seen a peak as early as November,” said Brianna Hopson, a senior nursing student
Hopson said getting the shot will protect individuals and help keep the community as a whole healthy because there will be fewer people to spread the virus.
The TCU flu clinic is open to faculty, staff and students, but there’s a limited supply of the vaccine.
The clinic will only have 3,500 vaccinations, Canclini said. Upon arrival, you will need to show your TCU ID, fill out paperwork and answer a series of questions.
Canclini said the questions will be important for determining the individual’s health.
“These questions will determine if you’re qualified to get the flu shot,” Canclini said. “If you have a fever, or are highly allergic to eggs, then we will recommend that you see your regular physician.”
There will be no need to pay for these shots- they will be free-of-charge, even if you don’t have health insurance.
“One thing that the university has realized is that it’s cheaper to pay for a vaccine instead of paying for a sick employee or a sick student,” Canclini said.
Nursing students, along with Canclini, have been preparing for the clinic since August.
