As flu season approaches, UCF Health Services encourages students and staff and faculty members to receive the vaccination and build immunity before the height of the season in February.<\/p>\n
The shot \u2013 which protects against both seasonal and H1N1 flu strains\u2014is $10 for students and $20 for faculty and staff. Appointments are required to receive the shot and can be made by calling 407-823-3850.<\/p>\n
Getting a flu shot is considered one of the most effective ways to prevent the illness and protect others from it.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith such a large campus population, your chances of being exposed to the flu are very high,\u201d explained Megan Pabian, coordinator of University Relations and Public Affairs for Health Services.<\/p>\n
\u201cShould you catch the flu, most people need one to two weeks to fully recover. That\u2019s time out of class and work that you can\u2019t afford,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Other ways to stay healthy include covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze; washing hands thoroughly and frequently throughout the day with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing; using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water is not accessible; not touching your eyes, nose and mouth; and avoiding close contact with sick people.<\/p>\n