The Centers for Disease Control remind us that college students are at a unique risk of contracting the flu due to their lifestyle factors. Close contact such as that found in residence halls, classrooms, public transportation, parties, and sports events makes flu especially easy to spread at a college. Further, lack of sleep, not eating healthfully, and not exercising regularly can weaken the immune system, making young adults more vulnerable to the flu.
Along with practicing healthy habits, the best way to protect against the flu is to get a vaccination every single year. Our Byrd Health Center is providing flu shots on campus. There is a charge for the flu vaccine, $15, and with a student’s authorization, the charge may be billed to his or her student account. The vaccination can be given to anyone coming into the Byrd Center during the hours in which the Center is open. Through the dedication of Carol Tyler, Director of Health Services, and her team, the College consistently has achieved high levels of participation in recent years. We encourage you to continue this positive trend.
