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Prompt Flu Vaccinations Urged Amid Continuing COVID-19 Pandemic

Campus Clinics Scheduled; Shots Also Available by Appointment at Health Center

By Maryland Today Staff

Illustration of flu vaccine

Illustration by iStock

University Health Center Director Dr. Spyridon S. Marinopoulos sent the following email to the campus community today:

As we continue to work to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 within our campus community, we must also prepare for the beginning of the cold and influenza (flu) virus season. Experts are projecting an increase in flu activity this year; however, we can help stop the spread of colds, flu and other viruses on our campus if we continue to follow many of the preventive measures that are already in place and get our flu shot.

This year in particular, while we are in the midst of the COVID-19 virus pandemic, it is extremely important to get a flu shot as soon as possible to help prevent a co-infection with both viruses. Because we did not experience a true flu season last year, medical experts don't yet know how having both viruses simultaneously might impact one's health.

Getting a Flu Shot
The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine, and the time to do so is now. Getting the flu vaccine is one of the best actions you can take to prevent yourself from getting and having serious symptoms or complications from the flu. And if you have certain health conditions that place you at higher risk, it is especially important to get the flu shot as soon as possible and to seek medical care promptly if you do end up having the flu.

Appointments for the flu vaccine are available at the University Health Center (UHC) and can be scheduled at myuhc.umd.edu. In addition, the UHC will be hosting flu vaccine events from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the following dates:

  • Oct. 14-15 at Eppley Recreation Center
  • Oct. 21-22 at Ritchie Coliseum
  • Oct. 25-26 at Ritchie Coliseum
  • Nov. 2-3 at Ritchie Coliseum
  • Nov. 9-10 at Eppley Recreation Center
 Schedule a Flu Shot Appointment

If you are planning to get the flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine or booster, studies have shown that you can get them both and you don't need to wait in-between shots.

Please find additional information about frequently asked questions on the University Health Center website.

It is up to all of us to help prevent the spread of viruses on our campus. We encourage everyone to follow these steps:
Help us prevent the spread of colds, flu and other viruses. Flu and virus season is here, so take precautions to avoid catching or spreading viruses. Follow these steps to stay healthy: Wash your hands and use hand sanitizer frequently. Clean high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs with antibacterial bleach wipes. Don't share food, utensils, water bottles or cups. If you are sick, stay home and rest. Wear a mask to help reduce the spread of viruses. Get a flu shot, available at the University Health Center. Want to learn more? Visit health.umd.edu

Stay healthy and be well,

Sincerely,

Spyridon S. Marinopoulos Signature

Spyridon S. Marinopoulos, MD, MBA, FACP
Director, University Health Center
Chief Medical Officer, University of Maryland
He/Him/His
Schools & Departments:

University Health Center

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