Get the shot, not the flu

With the flu season beginning, UCalgary’s Staff Wellness, Student Wellness Services and the Students’ Union are taking steps to ensure students, faculty, and staff have easy access to free flu shots by offering flu shot clinics on all campuses from Oct. 15-31.

Last year’s flu season in Alberta was particularly severe, with the province seeing a record number of flu-related hospitalizations, ICU admissions and deaths, while vaccination rates hit their lowest point in more than a decade.

“We saw last year how impactful the flu can be,” says Dr. Craig Jenne, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases at UCalgary’s Cumming School of Medicine. “While it’s easy to think of the flu as a mild illness, it can have serious consequences, particularly for those who are at higher risk, such as seniors, young children, and people with chronic health conditions.”

The flu virus spreads easily in busy environments like classrooms, dorms, transit, and social settings where close contact is common. While it doesn’t guarantee complete protection, getting the annually updated flu shot is the best tool against severe illness and in helping to prevent the spread of the virus. It’s easy to get the flu shot on campus: simply register online to receive a barcode (either print it or save it), then book an appointment to save time or walk into one of the on-campus flu shot clinics with your barcode. Note that the main campus flu shot clinic operates on a walk-in basis only, but as the largest clinic, wait times are typically short.

“Getting vaccinated is a small action that can have a big impact,” adds Jenne. “In a university environment, where so many people come into close contact with each other, this can make a real difference in preventing widespread illness. Not only does it protect you, but it also helps reduce transmission. The more people who are vaccinated, the better our chances of preventing a severe flu season.”

The UCalgary flu shot clinics are scheduled from Oct. 15-31. As it takes about two weeks for the body to build up immunity, the earlier you get your shot, the sooner you’re protected as flu season intensifies. Importantly, getting vaccinated early in the fall will continue to protect you for the duration of the flu season, stretching from early fall through to the end of exams in April.

Flu shots are the most effective tool in preventing severe illness, but everyday habits are also important. Actions like getting enough sleep, eating well, staying hydrated, reducing stress, washing your hands frequently, and staying home when you’re not feeling well can help keep you and those around you safe. For individuals with underlying health conditions or other concerns, adding other layers of protection in addition to vaccination, such as wearing a well-fitting mask, can offer extra protection in crowded indoor spaces.

As Dr. Jenne puts it, “The flu shot is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect ourselves and our community. With the convenience of the on-campus clinics, we’re hoping to see high participation this year.”

In addition to the flu, other viruses, like COVID-19, can also cause serious illness. An updated COVID-19 vaccine will be available at Alberta Health Services clinics and participating pharmacies. Jenne says getting both the flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine is the best strategy to protect yourself from severe respiratory infections and stay healthy throughout the season.

For all UCalgary flu shot clinic dates, locations and more information, visit ucalgary.ca/flu.