University Health Center will have flu shot clinics

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln University Health Center will have nine influenza vaccine clinics Oct. 24-Nov. 15 on City and East campuses for UNL students, faculty and staff. The walk-in clinics are scheduled for:

* Tuesday, Oct. 24: 8-10 a.m. and 1-3 p.m., University Health Center (15th and U streets, City Campus)
* Wednesday, Oct. 25: 9:30-11:30 a.m., East Campus Union
* Tuesday, Oct. 31: 8-10 a.m., UHC
* Wednesday, Nov. 1: 1-3 p.m., UHC
* Tuesday, Nov. 7: 1-3 p.m., UHC
* Wednesday, Nov. 8: 8-10 a.m., UHC
* Tuesday, Nov. 14: 9:30-11:30 a.m., East Campus Union
* Wednesday, Nov. 15: 8-10 a.m., UHC

Flu vaccinations cost $20 and payment via cash or check is required at the time of the vaccination. For those with Blue Cross/Blue Shield insurance, a claim will be filed for them by UHC staff for possible reimbursement (proof of insurance must be presented at the time of vaccination).

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is caused by a virus that infects the respiratory tract. A highly contagious infection of the nose, throat and lungs, the virus is spread from person-to-person when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The flu season in the United States runs from November through April each year. Flu symptoms include a sudden onset of high fever, chills, a dry cough, headache, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, extreme fatigue, and muscle and joint pain. Although the term "stomach flu" is often used to describe gastrointestinal illnesses, this is caused by other organisms and is not related to influenza.

There are several preventative measures in addition to vaccination that can help prevent the flu. They include:

* Get enough sleep, usually 7 to 8 hours per night
* Eat a balanced diet
* Wash your hands frequently
* Do not rub your eyes with your hands

Dr. James Guest, UHC director, recommends influenza vaccinations to help fight off the flu, particularly for those with asthma, diabetes, chronic illness or respiratory conditions. Protection develops about two weeks after getting the vaccination and may last up to a year.

A healthy person will handle the influenza well, but will feel miserable for up to a week and may miss a significant number of classes or work. There are antiviral medications available that will shorten the duration and severity of the symptoms if begun within the first two days of the illness. The influenza vaccination will not protect against other viruses, including West Nile.

Flu vaccinations are also available by appointment at UHC for those unable to attend the clinics. Call UHC at (402) 472-5000 or visit its Web site at www.unl.edu/health/flu.

CONTACT: Jennifer Snyder, Marketing Coordinator, University Health Center, (402) 472-7459