UConn Student Health and Wellness held a free flu vaccination clinic for students on Wednesday as part of a series of clinics held throughout the month of October.
The event, which was held from 1 to 4 p.m., took place on the third floor of the Hilda May Williams Building. Students were asked to sign up to receive a vaccination prior to arrival, but walk-in appointments were also welcome. The flu vaccine is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of influenza, according to SHaW’s website.
“I think immunizations [are important], especially on a college campus, because of how close we’re living, eating and studying. It only makes sense to contain the spread of influenza,” said Shannon Hegarty, a student employee for SHaW and fifth-semester pathobiology student. “It’s nice to have the service here at SHaW.”
According to the CDC website, 43.7% of American adults (18 and older) received the influenza vaccine in 2024. That number dropped to 29.7% for just 18 to 34-year-olds, the lowest of the four adult age groups. The highest percentage came amongst those 65 and older at 67.1%. Almost 4,000 people died from influenza in 2023. Influenza can also lead to an increased chance of developing pneumonia as well as sinus and ear infections. The CDC calls getting the vaccine the “first and most important step in preventing [the] flu.” The CDC recommends that anyone six years of age or older get vaccinated against the flu.
Though this event was only available for students, SHaW’s website also says that UConn Human Resources is working on providing a similar opportunity for employees of the university. They also provided a “Vaccine Finder” function for any who were unable to participate in the clinic but still wish to get their vaccination.
Beyond the free shots, SHaW also offered free candy and stickers to those who chose to participate. There was a steady flow of students in attendance throughout the clinic’s duration. Not only did the event provide an easy method for those who already planned to get vaccinated, but it also brought awareness to some who would not have otherwise chosen to get vaccinated.
“I honestly probably wouldn’t have gotten it if [SHaW] didn’t tell me about it,” said Lucas Zezima-Deutsch, a fifth-semester accounting student.
For students who were unable to make it to the clinic, SHaW will be hosting two additional dates in October for free vaccinations. Their second clinic will be held at the Hilda May Williams Building on Thursday, Oct. 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The third date will be held the following week on Monday, Oct. 27 inside the Student Union in room 104 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The second event encourages students to sign up online using the SHaW website, while the third is only walk-in appointments.
“It’s a nice resource for the student community as a whole to be able to come here and have that vaccine readily accessible,” said Hegarty.
Featured photo from unsplash