On Oct. 3 and 7 UNM Hospital will be hosting a drive-thru flu shot drive as a part of their free vaccination clinics this semester.
“The vaccine is the same everywhere, but if you get vaccinated at UNMH it’s free,” said Marsha Houck, director of occupational health services at UNMH. “The hospital absorbs the cost of the vaccine and we have multiple clinics.”
A list of vaccine drive dates can be found on the UNM HSC website.
“The flu vaccine is a great way to protect everyone from infection with the flu,” said Dr. Meghan Brett, a UNMH epidemiologist. “It takes two weeks after the flu vaccine for you to be protected against flu when it’s circulating.”
Brett said that it’s best to receive a flu shot early because it’s the best way to be protected for the entire flu season.
The vaccine being given this year protects patients against three viruses, according to a UNM HSC press release. The vaccines are free and will be offered at a variety of locations around Albuquerque for the next two months.
“Right now, there have been only three cases of influenza here in Bernalillo County,” Brett said. “So it’s hard to predict more about this year’s flu season without more information. However, the flu is something that should be taken seriously every year because it can cause some serious infections in people of all ages.”
Brett said college students might be at a higher risk for getting the flu due to close living quarters and extensive contact with many people on a regular basis. She advises for students to maintain good hygiene as the flu virus can live on surfaces for up to one week.
“If you develop a fever, then staying at home or in the dorm can also be effective to prevent the spread of flu to others,” Brett said.
Brett recommends that people get vaccinated as soon as possible wherever is most convenient to them, but recommends going to UNMH because of the waived fee. The SHAC will also be offering flu vaccines.
Fin Martinez is a freelance reporter for the Daily Lobo. He can be reached at news@dailylobo.com or on Twitter @FinMartinez.
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