Influenza vaccines available in November
Students with a high risk of getting the flu should get the vaccine.
Published Oct. 20, 2006
The Student Health Center will give influenza immunizations to students throughout the months of October and November as winter and the flu season approach.
Susan Even, director of the Student Health Center, encourages students to receive a vaccine every year.
"The virus that causes influenza changes every year, and therefore for students to be protected, they need to get a flu shot every year, in late October or November," Even said.
Health Center officials said students who live in residence halls should receive the vaccination in order to prevent an outbreak.
Freshman Emily Burchwell lives in a residence hall and will receive the vaccination.
"I feel that this campus is filled with germs, and I do not have the time to get sick," Burchwell said.
Influenza is contagious and is easily spread among people through coughing or sneezing. In most cases, influenza lasts only for a few days with symptoms including fever, cough, sore throat, headache, muscle ache, chills and fatigue.
"If one person gets sick, it's going to spread rapidly," Burchwell said. "The worst part is that you have to touch the bathroom doors where all the germs live."
People can catch the virus even after being immunized, but the recovery time is much quicker and the symptoms less severe.
Even recommends that those with compromised immune systems receive the vaccine first. In the event of a shortage, people with comprised immune systems are the clinic's priority patients.
"Students with asthma, diabetes and other chronic illnesses should get the vaccine because they are more prone to complications of the illness," Even said. "However, all students should consider getting the immunization."
In some cases influenza can lead to pneumonia and can become serious for those with heart or breathing conditions. Each year 36,000 people die from influenza in the United States.
In the past, there have been shortages due to the overwhelming need of vaccinations. Even said it won't be a problem this year.
There are two types of influenza vaccinations: inactivated and live. The live vaccination contains a weaker version of the virus, which equips the body to become immune.
Not everyone is recommended to receive a flu vaccine, Even said.
"Students with anaphylactic hypersensitivity [severe allergy] to egg products should not get the vaccine," Even said. "A minor illness, with or without fever is not a reason to avoid receiving the vaccine."
The Columbia/Boone County Health Department will also hold clinics during Oct. 25 and Nov. 4 only for those who are at the highest risk for complications caused by influenza. The group includes people over the age of 50, women who are or will be pregnant and those with chronic health problems.
The administered vaccination at the county health department costs $20, and officials recommend wearing clothing that will allow easy access to the upper arm area.
