The heavy coats, scarves and beanies around campus are not only stylish signs of the changing weather season, but also signs of another season—flu season. Flu season has arrived, which means students have more of a chance of getting sick. Symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches and sore throat are the first signs you could be coming down with a pesky cold.
Traditionally, many people believe the flu vaccine is only for babies, pregnant women and the elderly; however, the flu vaccine is recommended for everyone over the age of six months. The vaccine is also highly recommended for people who are in close proximity with others, which directly applies to college students. College campuses experience the flu more often than other communities due to the closeness of the environment.
“Different classes and different dorms make college students susceptible to the flu,” said Georgia State Student Health Clinic Nurse Manager Daisy Williams, RN.
Flu season coincidentally occurs during the crucial months of the semester, when students cannot afford to miss classes and lack the energy and focus to complete assignments and tests. College students are greatly exposed and aware of the symptoms of the flu; however, they have mixed feelings about receiving the flu vaccination.
“I think students don’t feel like they’re going to get sick,” said Williams. “The vaccination does not encompass all flu strains, but it eliminates most of it.”
Several students, such as sophomore Kimberly Bartlett, believe the negative factors of flu vaccination, like possible fear of needles, pain, or potential symptoms, are worth preventing the illness.
“I get one every single year,” Bartlett said. “As much as I loathe needles in my flesh, I hate being sick more.”
While some Georgia State students believe the flu vaccination is very beneficial, others are not as receptive to flu shots. Many students believe the flu vaccination will only increase the chance of receiving the flu illness.
“I don’t get them,” said senior Keneshia Woodson. “Every time I get a vaccination, I get the flu shortly afterwards.”
Williams explained that when people still receive the flu after the vaccination, it is an instance where the vaccine may have eliminated certain strains of flu, but not all. She also encourages every student to receive a flu vaccination during every flu season.
The flu vaccination is available to students, without appointment, Monday through Friday from the hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Student Health Clinic. The cost of the vaccination is $11; however, Williams suggests that students should receive the vaccination even if they are not able to afford it.
“We can put a hold on the student’s account,” said Williams. “And they can pay for the vaccination in convenient increments.”
