The most predictable thing about flu season is that it is unpredictable. The best way to protect yourself against the flu is by getting vaccinated every year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older should get vaccinated every year. Stamps Health Services has a few options for students, faculty, and staff to get vaccinated this flu season.

“Getting the flu shot every year is important for two reasons,” shared Dr. Benjamin Holton, senior director of Stamps Health Services, “the circulating strains of flu change every year and your body’s protection from having gotten the flu or the flu shot last year declines over time.”

While flu activity in the United States is currently low, there have already been diagnosed cases in the metro Atlanta region this season.

“Getting the flu vaccine not only helps protect you from the flu virus, but also those around you,” continued Dr. Holton. “The best way to protect Georgia Tech from the flu is for everyone who can get the flu shot to get one.”

Students who have paid the health fee can get their flu shot for free at a flu shot clinic, at an appointment in the allergy, immunization, and travel clinic, or during a physical or injury/illness visit with primary care. Flu shot clinics are held on the following Wednesdays from 9am to 3pm on the second floor of Stamps Health Services:

• October 2
• October 16
• October 30
• November 6
• November 20

There will also be additional clinics in the spring semester.

Faculty and staff can also get their vaccine at the Stamps Health Services through the pharmacy. The pharmacy is available to give flu vaccines from 9am to 4pm Monday through Friday. Faculty and staff with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield can receive the vaccine at no cost. Faculty and staff with who are enrolled in Kaiser Permanente or other health insurance plans can still receive their vaccine at the Stamps Health Services Pharmacy but will be charged up to $32 depending on coverage. Healthcare-enrolled Georgia Tech employees who receive their flu vaccine can earn $25 toward their USG Well-Being credit.

For more information about the flu and getting your flu shot on campus, go to health.gatech.edu/flu.