To Wentworth Students
From: Annamaria Wenner, Dean of Students/Associate Vice President for Student Affairs
Date: Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Re: Update on Seasonal Flu Shots for Students
Due to the current limited quantity of SEASONAL FLU shots, in accordance to recommendations from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC), Harvard Vanguard Student Health Services will be offering a Seasonal Flu Shots for HIGH RISK students.
Q: Who is considered high risk?
A: Students with existing health conditions which would be compromised by the seasonal flu are considered high risk. Such health conditions include respiratory illness, heart conditions, and other active chronic diseases.
Q: If I am high risk, where should I go for a flu shot?
A: High risk students should go to or call Harvard Vanguard Student Health Services, located in Watson Hall, to make an appointment for a seasonal flu shot. 617.989.4070
Q: Is there a cost for the flu shot?
A: Most insurance companies cover the cost for flu shots for those individuals considered high risk. If your insurance does not cover the flu shot or if HVMA does not accept your insurance, you will be responsible for the cost of the vaccine.
Q: Where can students who are not high risk get a flu shot?
A: There are several options for low risk students:
- Students able to travel home can make an appointment with their primary care physician.
- Local pharmacies are offering flu shot clinics at very low costs, including Walgreens in Brigham Circle.
Q: Are H1N1 vaccines available yet?
A: The H1N1 vaccine is not yet available. Once it is, students will be notified on H1N1 Flu Shot Clinics
Q: Are H1N1 vaccines also for only high risk students?
A: The H1N1 vaccines are for high risk populations, but for this particular strain of the flu, College Students are considered a high risk population.
Q: What do I do if I think I have the flu now?
A: Immediately go home (residence hall or home) and call Harvard Vanguard Student Health Services at 617.989.4070 for further information. |
