Student seasonal flu vaccinations available Oct. 7

Dear Students,
 
Student Health Services will distribute the seasonal flu vaccine to students from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 7. The vaccine being distributed by SHS is available only to Bucknell students. The cost is $20, which can be paid with BUID, cash or check.
 
To accommodate the distribution of the vaccine, regular SHS services will close at 4 p.m. that day. At this time, this is the only day scheduled for distribution of the seasonal flu vaccine on campus. Other days may be scheduled if needed and supplies remain available.
 
The vaccine supplies provided to the University are the so-called "flu mist," which is delivered via a mist sprayed into the nose. This method of vaccination is as effective as any method of delivery but is unsafe for individuals with conditions that may cause difficulty breathing, such as asthma, or with muscle or nerve disorders as well as for pregnant women. More information on who may safely receive the nasal spray vaccine is available from the CDC at www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/vis/downloads/vis-flulive.pdf.
 
As noted in my announcement earlier this week, Bucknell students who are traveling home for Fall Recess (5 p.m. Oct. 9 - 8 a.m. Oct. 14) should consider getting the seasonal flu vaccination instead from their hometown healthcare providers. In some cases they may already have their supply, and it is also available via major retail outlets (i.e., Walmart, CVS). By doing so, you will be protecting yourself and helping to ensure that the University has an adequate supply for all who wish to be vaccinated for seasonal flu by Student Health Services.
 
As a reminder, the seasonal flu and H1N1, or swine flu, are different viruses. It is possible to contract both viruses, and there are separate vaccinations to protect against each type. According to public health officials, the H1N1 vaccine is expected to be available in mid- to late October. They have not informed us yet though if the University will receive a supply or how the vaccine supply will be distributed. We will share that information when it becomes available..
 
Please continue to take the necessary precautions to help prevent the spread of flu. More information, including updates on presumed H1N1 cases at Bucknell, is available at www.bucknell.edu/swineflu.
 
Thank you.
 
Sincerely,
Donald W. Stechschulte Jr.
Director, Student Health Services