Butler offers flu shots to all students. Graphic by Lily Schneider.
MCKENNA SKATELL | STAFF REPORTER | mskatell@butler.edu
As flu season approaches, getting a flu shot can help keep you and those around you protected from the virus, which can be dangerous if contracted. Receiving the flu vaccine can decrease your chances of getting the flu, as well as, lessen symptoms if you do contract it.
Butler has administered flu shots in the past and this year is no different. A clinic will be held in the Health and Recreation Center, HRC, from Oct. 5 to Oct. 9. Health care workers from Employer Wellness Solutions Indiana will be administering the shots.
With COVID-19 in the picture, getting the flu shot is even more important. Pharmacy professor, Dr. Veronica Vernon, said getting both the COVID-19 vaccine and flu shot together is perfectly safe.
“Everyone should get the flu shot,” Vernon said. “Many people forget how impactful the flu can be now with COVID on our minds. Flu season can last the whole way through the month of April, so it is best to get it now.”
Vernon said health officials look to Australia, who is just coming off of their winter, to see what strains will be prevalent this year. Usually three viruses will be the most common. Looking at Australia’s trend can help us to see what our flu season will look like.
“50 to 55 percent of adults got the flu shot last year, but I would like to see that number even higher,” Vernon said.
How to schedule a flu shot appointment at Butler
Every student received an email where they can pick a date and time to schedule their appointment.
- Once on the email, scroll down and click on a preferred date and pick an available slot
- Fill out the form with your name, date of birth, mobile phone number, and email
- After completed, the student will receive a confirmation email
How to get a flu shot off campus
If you are unable to receive your flu shot during the clinic at Butler, you can schedule an appointment at CVS , Walgreens or another pharmacy. Walk-ins are also welcome. Most insurances cover the cost of the immunization.
- To schedule an appointment go to their website and click schedule a flu shot
- Fill out the basic information such as name, phone number, email and allergies
- Pick an available day and time slot
Student Thoughts
Hillary Reed, a sophomore health sciences major, said having flu shots available on campus will hopefully increase the number of students who receive this year’s flu vaccine.
“Butler offering the vaccine makes it much easier for students to schedule around their class schedule and it is within a much quicker time frame,” Reed said. “I got my flu shot at Butler last year, and I’m planning on doing the same this year.”
Kelsey Youngcourt, a first year health sciences major, said she agrees that having the clinic on campus makes things easier, and she highly encourages people to get vaccinated.
“I feel this is a great idea,” Youngcourt said. “It is convenient for students to not have to travel anywhere to get their shot.”
