“Flu is serious.  Every year millions of people get sick; more that 200,000 people are hospitalized and thousands of people die from influenza,” In keeping with CDC guidelines, “everyone over the age of 6 months should get a flu shot” - Dr. Thomas R. Frieden, Director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The earlier you get the vaccine and protect yourself, the better off you will be. read more The best time to have the flu shot is October or November.  This ensures that it’s working during flu season (October through March).

Complications from the Flu can include: Pneumonia, heart problems and sinus and ear infections. However, uou can not get the flu from the Flu shot!  The shot uses a “dead”  flu virus.

Who should get the flu shot?

• People with chronic health conditions (such as asthma, diabetes or heart problems)
• Adults age 50 and older
• People with weakened immune systems

Who should not get the flu shot?

• People allergic to eggs
• People who have had a severe reaction to a flu shot in the past
• If you have a fever, you may need to wait to get the shot.

The Flu vaccine is available in the Marymount Student Health Center on the main campus.

Flu Clinic Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 10:00 am - 1:00 pm. Friday by appointment.

Cost for the vaccine: $10.00 (The cost of the vaccine has been cut in half this year, to encourage everyone to protect themselves)

Contact the Student Health Center if you have any questions:

Judith A. Hotchkiss R.N., C.
Director Student Health Center
310-303-7244
jhotchkiss@marymountpv.edu

Basic Flu Prevention Tips:

• Covering your mouth and nose when coughing.
• Using a tissue and dispose of it in the trash.
• Washing your hands often with soap and water.
• Use hand sanitizer whenever available
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Trying to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you feel ill, please stay home and limit your contact with others.

The signs and symptoms of  the flu including fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.  Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting in addition to the other symptoms.

Check the Center for Disease Control and Prevention for updates before traveling or studying abroad. wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/

• CDC Clean Hands Page
• Mayo Clinic Hand washing Information
• Guide to Health Care Schools
• Center for Disease Control
• LA County Public Health
• American Red Cross