University Health Services Combats the Flu

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October 14, 1999

SEARCH THE GAZETTE

HARVARD GAZETTE ARCHIVES

University Health Services (UHS) is combating the flu across campus this season by increasing education efforts and providing free flu shot clinics for the entire Harvard community. Surveillance by the Department of Health has indicated that last year was a moderately severe influenza season in Massachusetts.
To help minimize the effects this year, flu immunizations are recommended for those at risk of contracting influenza and developing serious complications and also for people in close contact with those who are ill. Students and those who live or work in a communal setting are included in these risk groups and are strongly advised to be immunized.

UHS is offering free flu shots all around campus in an effort to immunize more people this year. Clinics will be offered in the following locations:

Harvard College
Oct. 14: in Annenberg Dining Hall (Dinner Meal)

Oct. 20: in Eliot House Dining Hall (Dinner Meal)

Oct. 21: in Currier House Dining Hall (Dinner Meal)

Oct. 22: in Loker Commons (11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.)

Nov. 3: in Mather Dining Hall (Dinner Meal)

Business School Health Services, Cumnock Hall
Oct. 19: 2-5 p.m.

Oct. 26: 2-5 p.m.

Oct. 28: 2-5 p.m.

Law School – Lewis Center 2, Ground Level of LILC Building
Oct. 20: Noon-2 p.m.

Oct. 21: 10 a.m.-noon

University Health Services, 3rd Floor (for patients of UHS only)
Oct. 14: 8:30 a.m.-noon

Oct. 15: 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Oct. 22: 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Flu is caused by a virus found in the nose and throat of those who are infected and is spread via the air. The usual influenza season in the United States is from November to March or April. There is a new flu vaccine developed every year since some of the viral strains may change from year to year. Protection develops about 10 to 14 days after being immunized and will last six to twelve months.

Those interested in learning more about influenza or the vaccine may visit the UHS Center for Wellness and Health Communication's (CWHC) walk-in health resource center on the second floor of UHS. Anyone in the Harvard community can get confidential information, speak to health educators, or get connected to resources. Hours for the CWHC are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., (617)495-9629.

UHS recommends that anyone experiencing the flu or flu-like symptoms speak to his or her UHS primary care clinician.